Step 1: Assume every problem is a fresh problem

When a situation is presented to us, we spontaneously relate it to some other problem that we solved earlier.

The thought process goes like this:

I know this problem: It’s like what we had in the manufacturing department last month.

Or: You may remember a case study you read recently in a book, and get excited.

But at this stage when we are defining the problem, resist the temptation to adapt the available solutions. (We can always borrow those experiences later, if we need to.)

Always remember, every situation is unique. There could be many new angles in the situation facing us. With time many new technologies emerge. Consumer demands and expectations also change. We will lose the opportunity to address these with old solutions.

f you wish to create new solutions, look to the situation with fresh eyes.

Assume, we have a fresh problem.