For the problem that you are addressing, set out the following:
- What are the root causes of the problem?
- Who are the key actors involved?
- What solutions are already out there? Why are they not working? What is working that you can build on?
- Who is executing on these solutions?
- What else could be done to address the problem?
Don’t feel constrained simply by business solutions; also consider charitable or other options. Also don’t be limited to the solution that you are currently working on; in fact it’s better if you come up with as many different (ideally left-field) solutions, as possible. Come up with at least five solutions. Create a table with their pro’s and con’s and how they would influence the problem and the root cause of the problem.
Indicate if these solutions build upon the existing solutions and improve them or if it is a completely new approach.
What is special / different about the solutions?
Rank each of your solutions by cost and impact. Give them a rank from 1 (low) to 5 (high).
Select one solution with which you want to go forward.