Surely, if there was a solution to the PLP, we would have solved it long ago?
It all depends on what you call a solution. There are heaps of solutions: the problem is
that none of them works!
Stay with us on this one, OK?
Let's be more explicit. There are heaps of solutions: the problem is that none of them
works ……. on its own.
Changing paradigms
We've all come across situations in which a solution has been developed and everyone
agrees that it's a good solution, but it doesn't ever get implemented.
Can't think of one? Here's a hint: 1 January!
Have you ever stopped to wonder why it's so difficult to get even the best stuff
implemented?
We'll tell you why:
It's because we disregard people's mental paradigms (especially our own) - and how
difficult it is to change them - when we get to implementation!
We forget that everything is systemic! We make a single massive effort and then look for
something - or someone - to blame when it doesn't work.
All that effort - what a waste! But what option do we have?
The concept in a nutshell
The key to turning challenging situations around is to treat them systemically not
statically. This involves analysis and synthesis - not just deeper and deeper analysis.
The systemic approach is a lot easier than it appears - once you understand the Fractal
Principle - "Challenging situations are made up of repeating patterns."
Probsolv's problem-solving system uses repeating patterns concept to:
1. Identify the systemic problem in any challenging situation.
2.
3. Design a systemic way of implementing that solution.
Each of the cycles involves nothing more than:
1. Listing items (issues, solutions and scripts) which is analysing.
2. Finding the common theme across them all (PLP, PMA and PCP),
which is synthesising.
Once we can see the theme, we begin to see it everywhere. Our brains delight in making
the connections and before long, we're understanding and approaching the challenging
situation in an ever-increasingly systemic way.
Where to from here?
Well, that's the systemic thinking concept.
Whether you need to turn a specific situation around or develop an organisational
strategy, the systemic approach - and way of thinking - will give you a whole new
perspective on things.
