Key Data

Creative Problem Solving is a the thinking person’s process for navigating complexity.

A skillful ability to assess the situation at any given time is to identify where in the problem the situation is and to determine the next step.

The purpose of diagnosing a situation is ultimately to tease out key data. The skill of assessing the situation is important for many reasons-

Leaders are inundated with information. Leaders are information gatekeepers, controlling flow of relevant and important information. Knowing what and when to share information is a an ongoing practice.

The quality of the decisions leaders make largely reflect and determine values, culture and ultimately the quality of interactions among the team.

Because leaders operate in a fluid situation, and ability to always monitor situations, make adjustments and respond, often quickly, to new situations is imperative.

Casting a wide net for information gathering ensures not missing out on important information.

Context matters. Rich information is important for broad understanding.

Beyond just gathering information, leaders must also interpret data for meaning and new insights.

Leaders must be cognizant of process and content for broad understanding of a situation.

We are all leaders in some way. Don’t we lead our own lives? We make decisions every day about what to make for dinner, what to study, what job to take, where to go on holiday, where to invest etc.

Assessing the Situation is where Creative Problem Solving begins, because it tells us where to begin in the Creative Problem Solving Process.

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