Case application
Real problems arrive as messy cases. A simple, repeatable method lets you move from facts to a sound conclusion without missing what matters.
Key ideas
- Define the real question before analysing anything.
- Separate facts, assumptions and unknowns.
- A conclusion is only as good as the evidence linked to it.
Step by step
- 1
State the decision or question in one sentence.
- 2
List the relevant facts and mark each assumption.
- 3
Generate at least two options and test each against the facts.
- 4
Choose, justify in three sentences and name what would change your mind.
Example
Given a case about falling sales, a manager first asks whether the question is volume, price or mix. Framing it as 'why did repeat customers drop?' focuses the analysis and finds the cause.
Your drill
Take a recent problem from your work. Apply the four steps in writing and finish with the one fact that would most change your decision.
Common mistakes
- Jumping to a solution before defining the question.
- Treating assumptions as facts.
Check yourself
Why name what would change your mind?
Show the answer
It exposes the key uncertainty, keeps the decision honest and shows what to monitor.
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