How can you view problems from multiple perspectives?

In order to view a problem from multiple perspectives, you have to use the 2 "visual" faculties - an open mind and an ability to imagine (visualize). The important thing here is to keep your mouth tightly shut to allow all other perspectives to come in to help you visualize ??

In order to identify the problem I always ask what is the risk of not responding. What is the risk of the issue on the table not being addressed. This way of thinking brings clarity of what needs to be taken care of.

Powerful question! To truly conquer challenges, we must become masters of perspective. Imagine yourself as a multi-faceted diamond, each facet revealing a new approach. Talk to those impacted, research similar situations, and even flip the script - how might your "problem" be an opportunity for someone else? By embracing diverse viewpoints, you unlock a treasure trove of creative solutions.

Usually in this stage I will look for different situations/markets/plants where a similar situation occured. How did they solved it. Is there a ready solution to implement?

1) If the problem is complex, perhaps it is useful to mull over it for a few days. Sometimes, an inspiration for the solution can come from a totally different context, such as getting an outsider's perspective from someone much younger/older. 2) Find the solutions online, such as using Google, ChatGPT, and/or videos. However, some problems can be complicated, and require multifaceted solutions. In that case, talking about it with those in similar circumstances may be more useful. 3) For some problems, I prefer talking to someone who is a few steps ahead, rather than someone who is at my desired end state. The environment and circumstance where someone who started 10 years ago and someone who started 2 years ago can be very different.

Personas and market examples are two fo the best ways to take on a different perspective. Create illustrations of the typical stakeholders and test your plans and designs against them. The key here is to be truthful to the persona and react as they were. You gain nothing if you go against this. Comparing against historical data is also an excellent method. Look at what you've done in the past and see how it performed. Ask yourself why that was and make predictions to test again. This will help you take on the views of your stakeholders in the long-run.

When one is sitting in the board room the he/she bear the burden of the solution also, solution of the issue impact organisation and community as a whole. It is important to analyze the solution considering the impact on all the stakeholders by using different tools and perspectives, sometime past experiences also help. The important is how close you are to the issue and understanding it to identify different option.

One crucial insight that often goes unnoticed but deserves special mention is the importance of adopting a systemic approach to problem-solving. Problems rarely exist in isolation; they are usually part of a complex web of interconnected issues, systems, and stakeholders. A narrow focus on a single problem, without considering its relationship to other parts of the system, can often lead to suboptimal solutions or even unintended negative consequences. By looking at problems and solutions within the context of broader systems, we are better equipped to identify root causes, anticipate challenges, and innovate solutions that are both effective and responsible.

To perceive problems from various angles in engineering and project management, engage diverse stakeholders for insights. Foster an inclusive environment where team members feel empowered to voice concerns and propose solutions. Utilize techniques like brainstorming and SWOT analysis to uncover different viewpoints. Encourage cross-functional collaboration and seek feedback to refine perspectives and enhance problem-solving approaches.

Adding to insightful discussions here, "Prioritization of perspectives" could be another useful factor in the process i.e. prioritize perspectives on the basis of different factors, indicators towards the solution of problem. Like best (logical) prioritization could lead to quick and resilient solutions etc. Thanks !