Alternatives (Solution Generation Heuristic)
A heuristic that prompts the generation of multiple distinct solutions to a problem, exemplified by strategies to prevent children from getting lost in crowds.
THE IDEA
Alternatives asks you to generate different approaches before committing to a solution. The source illustrates this with proposals for children who might become separated from parents in a crowd:
- Attaching children more firmly to their parents (e.g., by a dog’s lead).
- Better identification of children (e.g., a disc with an address).
- Making it unnecessary for children to be taken into the crowd (e.g., crèches).
- Central points for children and parents to meet if separated.
- Displaying a list of lost children.
These are proposals to evaluate, not a finished safety plan. Compare how each would work, what it would require, and which problems it might create.
When to use it
When designing a new product feature, generate at least 10 different approaches before selecting one.
In a team meeting with a fixed budget, brainstorm alternative ways to allocate funds to maximize impact.
When solving a personal conflict, list multiple resolution strategies (e.g., compromise, mediation, postponement) before discussing them.
During a crisis, rapidly generate alternative action plans even if some seem unrealistic—they may spark more practical ideas.
FROM THEORY TO EVERYDAY LIFE
In practice
Preventing Lost Children in Crowds
An event team considers ways to reduce child-parent separation: identification wristbands, supervised play areas, and staffed meeting points. It compares feasibility, staffing, and how families would use each option before testing a plan.
Improving Customer Service
A company facing long wait times brainstorms alternatives: hiring more staff, implementing a callback system, offering self-service kiosks, and optimizing scheduling. The best combination is chosen based on cost and customer satisfaction.
A MOMENT TO REFLECT
Put it to work.
Think about a recent decision you made. What alternative options did you consider? If you considered only one, what other possibilities existed?
In a group setting, how can you ensure that participants feel safe proposing unconventional alternatives without fear of criticism?
List five alternative ways to improve your morning routine. Which one would you actually try, and why?
Often confused with
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION
Source texts
- Lateral Thinking A Textbook of Creativity (Edward de Bono)