Method

There are no methodologies for solving wicked problems, but it is possible to outline a method for taming them. The method outlined here takes explicitly into account just how volatile the problems are, and also be open for unexpected twists or dead ends.

• The immersion cycle, in which we allow our minds to be curious and open.
• The visualization cycle, in which we try to model the problem.
• The leverage cycle, in which we look for the blessed break.
• The experimentation cycle, in which we do, measure, learn, try again, and never give up.

There is a certain sequence to all this, but also a lot of iteration. Whatever you learn in immersion, will be enriched and clarified during visualization, and more often than not new areas of uncertainty will emerge.

Most importantly, it is essential to build learning into the experimentation cycle. Previously unknown information, secondary effects, and changing conditions are likely to change the very understanding of the problem and require corrective action.

The similarity between this method and structured problem-solving approaches is deceptive. This method places more emphasis on being effective than being precise. A lot of noise, conflicts, and ambiguity will remain, so the objective is to minimize these to a point where work is purposeful and productive.