The Art of Problem-Solving
On Understanding Problems:
The root of every problem has a meaning to it, a purpose within a larger context. There is also a deep-rooted system of inefficiency that has caused the problem.
Data can often shed light on these inefficiencies. Data often reveals patterns, and anomalies that would otherwise remain hidden. But data alone cannot reveal the full meaning and purpose behind a problem.
Why is this acknowledged as a problem, and why does it incur the loss?
Clear out the difference between perceived and real problems. Clearing out the noise is the most important aspect of this process.
A thorough analysis can help separate signal from noise. Identify the root causes of problems rather than their symptoms. Make a philosophical inquiry. It can also help you challenge assumptions and biases. Ensure that you are addressing the right problems for the right reasons.
Once you have a clear sign this is a real problem, now dig deeper to understand it. Every problem is specific to a domain,and a demographic that blocks them from results.
Highlight the unique challenges faced by different groups and industries. Understand the meaning and purpose of a problem within a particular domain. It requires a deeper understanding of its cultural, historical, and social context.
Know the many facets of what makes up this problem. Everyone says, it's a problem, it's a big problem, and blah blah. The real problem with problems is to get clarity on them.
On Solutions and Embracing Complexity:
Don't offer solutions on the first go. Instead, ask more questions on the problem.
Ask questions like:
Why does this problem bother them?
What is the ideal way they look at a solution?
Why is this a problem that is worth taking your time to think about the need to solve it?
This allows you to think and understand what are the ingredients to create a solution.
You can break down any complex issue into manageable chunks, does that solve the problem? No!
Stop wasting your time dilly-dallying with the simplification.
Offering solution solution should be the last thing on your mind.
There is a lot of nuance to offering a solution. When you do, understand not only the problem but the structure of how the solution will get used.
Do you need to build it for one persona or many personas?
Do they have preferences and their vices of solving this their way or are they running blind?
Once you have answers to these questions, it's quite easy for you to solve them and present them.