Develop Solutions from Root Causes
After identifying root causes of a problem, develop solutions that directly address each root cause, rather than guessing. For complex problems, evaluate multiple potential solutions to select the best one.
THE IDEA
Step 2: Develop Solutions to the Problem
After a “root cause analysis”, list potential solutions for each identified cause. Ask how each option would change the conditions producing the problem, rather than merely reduce a visible symptom.
Suppose a student studies without a plan. Creating a plan addresses that gap, but the plan still needs to fit the student’s workload and available time. If the student also lacks priorities, possible approaches include ordering topics by exam importance, difficulty, or prerequisite knowledge.
Compare the options for each cause, including their likely effect, effort, and constraints. Choose an approach, try it, and check whether it improves the original problem. If it does not, revisit both the solution and the diagnosis.
When to use it
Improving a business process by identifying and fixing underlying bottlenecks.
Enhancing study habits by targeting the real reasons for poor performance (e.g., lack of planning).
Solving a personal finance issue by addressing overspending triggers rather than just cutting costs.
Resolving team conflicts by addressing core communication breakdowns.
FROM THEORY TO EVERYDAY LIFE
In practice
Study Plan Problem
A student starts studying without deciding what to cover or when. A study plan can address that gap; the student then checks whether the schedule is realistic and improves preparation.
Priority Setting Problem
A student has not prioritized what to study first. They compare approaches such as starting with heavily tested topics, difficult material, or prerequisites, then choose an order suited to the course.
A MOMENT TO REFLECT
Put it to work.
What methods can you use to ensure your solution directly addresses the identified root cause?
How do you decide which solution is best when multiple valid options exist?
Can you think of a time when addressing a symptom instead of the root cause failed to solve a problem?
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION
Source texts
- Thinking in Systems and Mental Models Think Like a Super Thinker (Dawson, Marcus P)