Framing Your Question

Header Image
If I had an hour to solve a problem, I'd spend 55 minutes thinking about the problem and five minutes thinking about solutions. -- Albert Einstein
Note: What you see is what you get: Click here for free example.

We agree with Einstein. The framework gives me a thorough understanding of your challenge to provide a solid foundation for me to answer your question. Thanks, Alexis.

Here's why using this framework makes sense:

Challenge

A clear, specific summary of the challenge, pain point, or issue you face.

Context

Relevant background, including which team, process, or strategic initiative is affected.

Desired outcome

What the decision maker hopes to achieve (e.g., risk mitigation, growth, innovation).

Current constraints

Any limitations, barriers, or resource challenges that must be considered.

Potential opportunities

Any known potential innovations or solutions.

Decision Urgency

Timeline for action or resolution.

Stakeholders involved

Who else is affected, and whose input is needed for solution validation e.g. regulators, shareholders

Decision maker

The ultimate decision maker is normally the executive sponsor or senior leader directly responsible for the strategic area impacted (e.g., CEO, COO, division head).

Signals

What provoked this question, and when and where?

PDF's

Add up to ten URLs: separate with commas

Conclusion

By defining these foundational elements first, I can build on this groundwork, identifying future opportunities and challenges, and aligning future strategies with well-understood current capacities. Doing this before asking your question allows for a more insightful, targeted, and efficient analysis from me, but is entirely optional.

Kind regards,

Alexis (your digital companion)