Imagine a chart with 'Rigour' on the Y-axis and 'Time' on the X-axis. On this chart, we can plot a line called the 'Problem Solving Frontier.' This frontier represents the maximum quality of problem-solving achievable within a given timeframe. Rigour involves clearly defining the problem, collecting data, conducting research and interviews, prioritising issues, analysing data, generating solutions and ideas, creating implementation plans, and committing resources. So rigorous problem solving is involved and takes a lot of time.

At the bottom left of the imaginary chart, we would typically see everyday business problem-solving as it occurs in most corporations (excluding startups). This is characterised by multitasking individuals who can only devote limited time and effort to a problem. They might not gather comprehensive data or have dedicated brainstorming sessions and hence will rely on personal experience and partial data for decision-making (a lot of times that is good enough).

But how can industry professionals break the problem solving frontier under time constraints? They can ascend the frontier within the same timeframe by adopting techniques used by researchers (who spend a lot of time) and consultants (who focus on rigour).

Three Strategies to Break the Frontier

  1. 1.Learn Quickly from Existing Knowledge: Avoid reinventing the wheel. This approach can significantly reduce the time required in prioritisation and ideation. Consultants often refer to their firm's prior client experiences and knowledge portals when tackling a new client's issue. Researchers review existing literature on their topic or related areas to build upon previous work. This is almost the first question you should ask — who has solved this before?
  2. 2.Utilise Simple Frameworks: Many people rush into problem-solving without a structured approach, leading to unnecessary analysis and rework. Consultants often employ frameworks like design thinking to streamline their workflow. Researchers typically define their approach meticulously before commencing experiments. By using a high level frame of the problem your return on effort can be significantly higher.
  3. 3.Apply Mental Models or Analytical Heuristics: These tools can shorten the time needed for certain steps. For instance, mental models such as inverting the problem allows us to arrive at newer solutions. Similarly, analytical heuristics like ratio analysis or contribution analysis allows us to prioritise quickly.