Question-storming — Solving complex systemic problems.
When faced with problems (really : opportunities in disguise), I developed a personal practice which I like to call as “Question-storming” to invent or innovate around complex systemic problems. I have had a LOT of success even when we practiced this as a group/team and never failed with this approach, hence I have a compulsive need to share it with all of you.
I naively thought that I had discovered a brand-new unfailing process for innovation, but upon some research its an age-old personal practice (Newton or Einstein did somethin like it) and even written about in 1985 by Jon Roland. But nevertheless, It never became “Main-stream” and I really believe that its high time for it to become so!
So, Here’s a guide explaining the need for Question-storming and its practice :
Why Question-storming ? Why not Brain-storming ?
Discovering problems actually requires just as much creativity as discovering solutions. There are many ways to look at any problem, and understanding (developing a full-awareness) of all the dimensions, intricacies, inter-dependancies within a problem is often the first step toward a creative solution. Generally complex problems involve various systemic causes resulting into that problem, probably a multitude of changes within an interdependent and inter-connected system.
This requires us to identify the various causes and “sense” the varying degrees of their effect on the situation at hand. Designing a solution implies to intervene into the situation which nullies or rectifies the effect of such causes leading to desirable or acceptable short-term/long-term consequences (Because solutions can also lead to more new problems). We should also not make the often made mistake of applying simple solutions to complex problems.
In plain english, when designing solutions for complex problems :
1. In order to define the problem well, we need to develop awareness in and around it, and look at the problem from multiple view points.
(Question-Storm)
2. Do some scenario-thinking to keep a check on the consequences.
3. Develop a fear-free, meditative state of mind (to spark that intuition). so we may arrive at an “Aha!” moment.
4. Go ahead apply the solution !
Here’s how to question-storm :
In my experience, I found that when we write down a variety of questions, we open ourselves up to various perspectives, we can think from the shoes of many (can be stakeholders or systemic causes). This enables us to “See” from multiple perspectives or “points of views” expanding our awareness to get a 360 view on the complex problem at hand. It does require, what I learnt from Fred Kofman’s conscious business “Ontological Humility”. Meaning, we need to consciously detach ourselves from our own view points and explore other view points.
So, its simple, sit together in silence for about 15–20 mins in a group or all by yourself and write down as many questions as possible on a flip chart/notes.
Here’s some types of questions you can come up with :
( From The myths of innovation by Scott Berkun)
- What is? — These questions focus on facts and as-is situation
- What caused? — These questions get at the root of a problem
- Why? Why Not? — This type reflects the rationale behind a given problem space.
- What if? — These are the questions that point to a different future and lead to real innovation.
I would also suggest you get drawing or doodling about the problem, or better-yet create a systems map (check image below).
Arriving at the “Aha!” Moment :
Once I have about 30–5 questions, and a neat visual systemic map, I generally sit down and think about this questions, center myself in my heart meditatively (Read : Open Mind, Open Heart, Open Will) until that “Aha!” (or that Eureka!! moment) arrives. It might be similar to Newton sitting under a tree in a possibly dreamy-state, a state full of wonder which made him view/question an everyday incidence.
I can assure you that we can draw inspiration from a still and meditative state, its almost as if the universe conspires to give you a solution/insight, people call this intuition and some refer to this as listening or following ones heart or gut.
This is probably, how original insights emerge !
So follow your heart, by all means !
Thank you for reading !
Share your ideas, thoughts and experiences with me in the comments.
P.S, Some goodies for you :
A crash course in Meditation :
Sit comfortably and relax, close your eyes and meditate with the suggestion that the source of light within your heart, is attracting your attention inwards. Continue for 15–30 mins. Don’t fight thoughts, instead just brush them aside and bring your attention gently back to that light within your heart!
You can also try the Heartfulness App for IoS/Android : Click Here
A Powerful journaling tool :
This Guided journaling from Presencing Institute is a powerful reflection aid, especially when one if uncertain about their future. Click Here to Access it.
Namaste, and Best wishes :)
