Problem solving is the backbone of success in the world of entrepreneurship. Let’s discover together 10 little-known techniques that allow entrepreneurs to overcome obstacles with creativity and efficiency.
1/ The “six hats” method
This method is like a toolbox for the mind. Entrepreneurs can actually wear different “hats” to approach a problem from different angles. For example, by wearing the red hat, they can take an emotional perspective, while by wearing the white hat, they can focus on facts and data. This allows them to explore problems comprehensively and discover innovative solutions. Here are the generally defined hats:
- White hat: It represents neutral facts and information. Wearers of this hat focus on objective data and available information.
- Red Hat: This hat symbolizes emotions and feelings. Wearers of this hat express their instinctive reactions, intuitions and emotions towards a situation.
- Black Hat: It represents pessimism and criticism. Wearers of this hat focus on constructive criticism. They identify risks, obstacles and negative aspects of a decision or proposal.
- Yellow Hat: This hat represents optimism and positivism. Wearers of this hat look for benefits, opportunities and positive aspects of a situation.
- Green Hat: It symbolizes creativity and divergent thinking. Wearers of this hat generate new ideas, explore alternatives and propose original solutions.
- Blue Hat: This hat represents controlled thinking and management of the thought process. Wearers of this hat oversee the discussion, direct the flow of thought, and ensure that other hats are used appropriately.
2/ The unexpected analogy
Finding unexpected analogies is like opening a window to a world of possibilities. For example, an entrepreneur looking to solve a logistics problem can be inspired by the functioning of a natural ecosystem to find effective solutions. This approach stimulates creativity by encouraging unexpected connections between seemingly unrelated areas.
3/ Dynamic mind mapping
Dynamic mind mapping is like having an infinite whiteboard at your fingertips. Entrepreneurs can use interactive tools to create and adjust their mind maps in real time. For example, when solving a complex human resource management problem, they can easily reorganize ideas. They can also add new branches and explore different solution avenues in a fluid manner.
4/ The technique of abstract climbing
Abstract climbing is like climbing a mountain to get the big picture. Entrepreneurs can step back and look at the problem from a broader perspective. Instead of focusing only on the symptoms of a problem, they can ask themselves what the root cause is. They can thus identify more robust and durable solutions.
5/ Rapid prototyping
Rapid prototyping is like testing a scale model before building the final version. Rather than spending months planning a solution, entrepreneurs can quickly create simple prototypes to evaluate their effectiveness. If you want to develop a new app, you can create a rudimentary prototype to gather user feedback and then refine their concept based on the feedback. This allows for rapid iteration and continuous improvement.
6/ Parallel thinking
Parallel thinking is like having multiple spotlights shining on a problem from different angles. By organizing parallel thinking sessions with a multidisciplinary team, entrepreneurs can leverage the diversity of perspectives to generate innovative ideas. For example, when designing a new marketing strategy, different teams such as marketing, sales, and finance can contribute their unique ideas simultaneously, allowing for in-depth exploration of possibilities.
7/ Socratic questioning
Socratic questioning is like untying a knot with questions. Entrepreneurs can stimulate critical thinking by asking probing questions about the problem and challenging underlying assumptions. When evaluating product performance, you can use Socratic questioning to examine each aspect of the product and identify areas for improvement.
8/ The “yes, and…” of improvisation
Borrowed from the world of theatrical improvisation, it consists of building a story together. Entrepreneurs can use this technique to encourage unfettered brainstorming, where every idea is accepted and developed by the team. Example: During a product development meeting, each team member can add to the previous idea by saying “yes, and we could also…”. This creates an environment where no ideas are judged and creativity is encouraged.
9/ Analysis of root causes with the “5 whys”
Root cause analysis is like digging beneath the surface to find the root of a problem. Entrepreneurs can use the “5 Whys” method to explore the underlying causes of a problem by continually asking the question “why?” » until they reach the Source of the problem. For example, when identifying the causes of delays in a production process, they can ask the question “why is the process delayed?” » repeatedly to identify contributing factors.
10/ The forced choice technique
The forced choice technique is like juggling seemingly impossible options. By forcing entrepreneurs to choose between contradictory alternatives, this technique stimulates creative thinking by encouraging the search for innovative solutions. If you are developing a new product with strict budget constraints, you can use the forced choice technique to explore innovative design options that meet needs while respecting financial limitations.
