Common Learning Portal

Overview

Feeling stuck finding a solution? Maybe the problem isn’t solving the problem but rather defining it. With a clear diagnosis of the problem, it’s possible to find more creative and effective solutions. Learn how to reframe your problem in this Harvard Business Review Article by author Thomas Wedell-Wedellsborg, author of Innovation as Usual: How to Help Your People Bring Great Ideas to Life.

What You’ll Learn

After completing the work on this page, you will be able to:

• Realize that diagnosing the problem is key to solving it
• Know how to reframe any problem you face
• Apply the seven practices to reframing a problem

NOTE: There is a limit of viewing 4 online articles per month at Harvard Business Review without a paid subscription. If you click on the link to this article, it will count toward your limit.

Read the Article

Dig Deeper

After reading the article, reflect on the following questions. Jot down your thoughts. Consider sharing this video with a colleague or a work group for an insightful discussion.

1. Think of a current problem in your life that needs solving. Apply the seven practices to reframe the problem. Reflect on the results.

Still Hungry?

Here’s more to spark your thinking on this topic:

Check out the following HBR articles on problem solving and decision making. Please note: There is a limit of viewing 4 online articles per month at Harvard Business Review without a paid subscription. If you click on the link to this article, it will count toward your limit.

• “The Hidden Traps in Decision Making“
• “The Elements of Good Judgement“
• “Who Has the D?: How Clear Decision Roles Enhance Organizational Performance“
• “Deciding How to Decide“
• “Why New Leaders Should Make Decisions Slowly“
• “A Short Guide to Building Your Team’s Critical Thinking Skills“
• “Why Groups Struggle to Solve Problems Together“
• “Why It’s OK to Trust Your Gut on a Big Decision“
• “3 Simple Habits to Improve Your Critical Thinking“
• “A Good Meeting Needs a Clear Decision-Making Process“
• “How to Act Quickly Without Sacrificing Critical Thinking“