Three Approaches to Problem-Solving Based on Gerald Weinberg's Definition
By
42point2
Not artisan, but a perfectly fine bagel. Hits the spot.
Summary
The article presents Gerald Weinberg's definition of a problem as "the difference between things as perceived and desired," which leads to three actionable approaches to problem-solving: 1) Change the perceived state, 2) Change the desired state, or 3) Decide the difference doesn't matter. While approaches 2 and 3 might seem like avoiding the problem, they can be optimal solutions by forcing reframing and re-contextualization. Changing the desired state allows solving a different, possibly easier problem, and sometimes deciding not to solve a problem or solving a different one can be viable solutions.
Key quotes
· 4 pulledA problem is the difference between things as perceived and desired.
Points two and three seem like cop-outs at first — you basically avoid solving the problem. But they often turn out to be not just viable but optimal since they force you to re-frame and re-contextualize the problem.
Changing your desired state allows you to solve a different, possibly easier problem.
Deciding not to solve a problem, or solving a different one, can also be a viable solution.
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