Reframe Problems Before Solving

Here are seven practices for effective reframing of problem in few minutes that I learnt from HBR article. It helps in creating simple, effective and economical solution in far shorter time.

1. Establish legitimacy: It's difficult to use reframing if you are the only person in the room who understands the matter. Share this article with your team.
2. Bring outsiders into the discussion: Someone who works with your team but not part of it. They will think differently and challenge the group's thinking.
3. People's definition in writing: This helps in ensuring everyone have the same view and understanding of the problem.
4. Ask what's missing: This ensures the description of problem is accurate and complete.
5. Consider multiple categories: Invite people to identify specifically what category of problem they think the group is facing.
6. Analyze positive exceptions: Look to instances when the problem did not Occur, asking, what was different about that situation?
7. Question the objective: Reframe by paying explicit attention to the objectives of the parties involved first clarifying and then challenging them