Framing: It's Not Just for Artists

How a Little Perspective Can Help You Find the Right Solution

Ah, problem framing! Let's imagine it as the unsung hero of the consulting world, often overshadowed by its flashy sibling, problem-solving. But fear not, for we are here to give problem framing the attention it so rightly deserves.

Picture this: You own a bustling restaurant, and lately, customers have been complaining about the long wait times for their food. Some even threaten to never return if you don't improve the wait times. As a result, your team starts brainstorming solutions. Many suggest hiring more kitchen staff, streamlining the cooking process, or upgrading the kitchen equipment. These ideas all share the assumption that the problem lies in the slow cooking process.

However, your restaurant manager offers a different solution - providing free drinks and appetizers to customers while they wait. This creative approach addresses the customers’ perception of the problem. Customers may not mind the wait as much if they have something to keep them occupied and satisfied.

This delightful twist is a perfect example of the power of problem framing, an essential technique in the modern consultant's toolkit. It's easy to get caught up in the race to find solutions. However, taking a step back to consider how we frame the problem can lead to more effective and innovative outcomes. In this article, we'll dive into the art of problem framing, discussing its importance in modern consulting, and sharing practical tips on how to reframe problems for better decision-making. So, buckle up and get ready to shift your perspective!

Understanding Problem Framing

In a nutshell, problem framing is the process of defining and understanding a problem before diving into solutions. It's like putting on your thinking cap and asking yourself, "Hold on a minute, what exactly are we trying to solve here? And is this the right problem to tackle?" You see, it's all about perspective.

Now, let's compare this fine art with the traditional problem-solving approach, which often involves jumping straight into action, like a knight charging into battle without a proper plan. In contrast, problem framing is akin to the wise counsel, urging the knight to pause and consider the situation from different angles. This reflection enables us to identify the true nature of the problem and avoid getting caught up in the wrong fight. Quite clever, isn't it?

But wait, there's more! Problem framing is not just a nifty technique for pondering problems; it's also highly relevant in modern consulting. In today's complex business landscape, it's crucial to adapt and evolve. Problem framing helps consultants stay ahead of the curve by challenging assumptions and uncovering hidden opportunities. It's like having a secret weapon in your consulting arsenal, ready to be unleashed when you need that extra edge.

As we embark on this journey of understanding problem framing, let's embrace its wisdom and learn how to harness its power for the greater consulting good. And who knows? You might just become the master of reframing problems and the envy of all your consulting peers.

Benefits of Problem Framing

Now that we've unraveled the mystery of problem framing, let's dive into the delightful benefits that come with mastering this craft. Spoiler alert: they are quite splendid!

First and foremost, problem framing is like a magic potion that encourages innovative solutions. By questioning the status quo and exploring alternative angles, we give our creative muscles a workout, leading to ideas that are as fresh as a crisp morning breeze. So, if you fancy yourself an innovation aficionado, problem framing should be your go-to method.

Secondly, problem framing addresses the perception of the problem, rather than just the problem itself. It's like offering rose-tinted glasses to your clients, helping them see the issue in a new light. This shift in perspective can reveal hidden gems and opportunities that were previously obscured by a narrow focus on the problem's perceived root cause.

Thirdly, problem framing is like a master of diplomacy, skillfully considering multiple perspectives to uncover a wealth of insights. By inviting diverse viewpoints to the table, we can gain a deeper understanding of the issue at hand and craft solutions that cater to different stakeholder needs. In the world of consulting, this ability to navigate complex situations is nothing short of a superpower.

Finally, problem framing facilitates better decision-making. It's like having a wise mentor who guides you through the maze of potential solutions, helping you make informed choices that lead to lasting success. When we carefully examine the problem before diving into action, we set ourselves up for more effective and strategic decisions.

Examples of Problem Framing in Action

If you're still not convinced about the power of problem framing, allow me to regale you with some real-world examples that showcase it across various industries.

Example 1: The Healthcare Industry - Patient Adherence

In the healthcare sector, poor patient adherence to medication regimens is a critical issue. The conventional approach would be to blame patients for being noncompliant and devise ways to "fix" their behavior. However, problem framing has led to a new understandings: patients may not fully grasp the benefits of their medications or face other barriers to adherence. This reframing has sparked innovations like easy-to-understand instructions, pill organizers, and reminder apps, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

Example 2: The Automobile Industry - Electric Vehicle Adoption

The automobile industry faces a challenge in promoting electric vehicle (EV) adoption. Initially, companies focused on improving the performance and range of EVs. But by reframing the problem, they realised that consumer perception and infrastructure were equally critical factors. This fresh perspective led to new solutions, such as public awareness campaigns, increased charging stations, and government incentives, accelerating the transition to sustainable transportation.

Example 3: The Retail Industry - Online Shopping Experience

In the retail world, companies often grappled with the issue of cart abandonment in online shopping. Traditional problem-solving might target technical glitches or website design. But problem framing revealed the underlying issue: customer anxiety over finalising purchases without physically examining the products. This insight inspired solutions like virtual try-on features, flexible return policies, and detailed product descriptions, enhancing the online shopping experience and boosting sales.

These examples demonstrate the immense impact of problem framing on solution generation. By stepping back and examining problems from different angles, we can unlock a realm of possibilities and drive transformative change.

Integrating Problem Framing Into Your Consulting

Are you ready to integrate the art of problem framing into your consulting practice? Let's begin with the steps to practice problem framing:

1. Identify the problem: Start by clearly articulating the problem at hand. It's like setting the stage for the grand performance that's about to unfold.

2. Challenge assumptions: Don the cap of a detective and question the underlying assumptions of the problem. Remember, no assumption is too sacred to be scrutinised.

3. Gather multiple perspectives: Assemble a diverse council of wise advisors (or simply seek input from various stakeholders) to gain insights from different viewpoints. More perspectives, more wisdom!

4. Reframe the problem: Now, wield your problem-framing magic and restate the problem based on your newfound understanding. It's like crafting a new lens through which to view the issue.

5. Generate and evaluate alternative solutions: With the problem reframed, let your creative juices flow and conjure up a plethora of innovative solutions. Evaluate them with care, and select the most promising options to implement.

Now that we've covered the steps, here are some tips for effective problem framing:

• Practice active listening and empathy to truly understand different viewpoints.

• Embrace curiosity and be willing to entertain unconventional ideas.

• Remain flexible and be prepared to revise your problem framing as new information emerges.

Lastly, encourage collaboration and open-mindedness among your team. Problem framing is a collective endeavor that thrives on the synergy of diverse minds. So, cultivate an environment where ideas are welcomed and explored without judgment.

Practitioner Insights

Problem framing is a powerful technique that enables us to pause, question our assumptions, and explore problems from different angles. By doing so, we set the stage for innovative solutions and better decision-making, ultimately guiding our clients toward lasting success.

We've seen the impressive benefits of problem framing in action, including its ability to encourage innovation, address the perception of problems, consider multiple perspectives, and facilitate better decision-making. Our journey through various industries has illustrated how reframing problems can unlock transformative change and drive meaningful impact.

To integrate problem framing into your consulting practice, remember the five-step process: identify the problem, challenge assumptions, gather multiple perspectives, reframe the problem, and generate and evaluate alternative solutions. Don't forget to practice active listening, empathy, curiosity, flexibility, and collaboration, as these skills are crucial to effective problem framing.

Problem framing is an indispensable skill for modern consultants, one that can elevate your consulting prowess to new heights. So embrace the art of problem framing, and embark on a thrilling adventure to reshape the world of consulting, one problem at a time.