Contents
What makes something a problem?
A problem is a situation, question, or thing that causes difficulty, stress, or doubt. A problem is also a question raised to inspire thought. In mathematics, a problem is a statement or equation that requires a solution. Something that involves problems or resembles a problem is said to be problematic.
How do you identify a good problem?
Here is our list of criteria for what makes a good problem.
- A good problem identifies a real obstacle to be overcome.
- A good problem is worthwhile.
- A good problem is timely.
- A good problem draws together a community of solvers.
- A good problem is one that a funding organisation can do something about.
How are you define the problem determines whether you solve it?
After looking deeply into the problem, the building administrators realized that the problem was not actually the speed of the elevators, but rather that it was boring and annoying to stand doing nothing while you waited for the elevator to get your floor. The boredom resulted in tenants perceiving the ride as taking longer than it actually did.
Which is a sign of a poorly identified problem?
A clear sign of a poorly identified the problem is irrational disagreement. You’ve been in these meetings: one person brings up a great idea, another shoots it down immediately, and participants voice conflicting opinions about said idea.
When do you know what the problem really is?
This conversation quickly degenerates and you know, instinctively, you’re going to leave in 45 minutes without accomplishing anything, except adding yet another gray hair to your head. These conversations often occur because participants differ in their opinion of what the problem really is.
What does it mean to not decide anything?
If what keeps you going so fast is the fear of doing nothing, then slowing down is perfect. You’re still doing something, just something called “not deciding…yet!” And, by the way, you will not actually be going slowly (just as a slow person playing – for some unfathomable reason – What Would Leigh Do? would not actually be going fast).