If you’re new to the world of problem discovery workshops, you may be wondering where to start.
This guide will teach you the basics and how to run your workshop. But first, let’s look at problem discovery and why it’s such an important tool for businesses.
What is a problem-discovery workshop?
Problem discovery workshops are a type of brainstorming session to identify potential problems and opportunities in a company’s products or services. They involve gathering key stakeholders, such as product owners, designers, engineers, and marketing teams, to discuss issues and explore new ideas.
What is the purpose of a problem-discovery workshop?
The goal of these workshops is to develop creative solutions that will help improve the customer experience. As a result, companies can better understand their markets and create products that meet customer needs by surfacing potential problems and opportunities.
How to set up a problem-discovery workshop:
We’ve written more about this in our post on how to set up a problem-discovery workshop.
- Identify the Stakeholders – Identify key stakeholders involved in the workshop. These may include product owners, designers, engineers, marketing teams, and other team members affected by the product or service.
- Set a Theme – It’s important to have a clear goal when running a problem discovery workshop. Choose a specific theme or problem area to focus on and create an agenda that outlines the process for the meeting.
- Gather Resources – Gather all necessary resources, such as customer feedback, industry research, competitor analysis, and any other data that may be relevant to the problem discovery process.
- Establish Ground Rules – Establish ground rules for the meeting to ensure an open and productive discussion. This includes enforcing a no-judgment policy and encouraging participants to stay focused on the task.
- Start the Workshop – Start by introducing everyone and reviewing the agenda. Lead a brainstorming session to generate potential solutions, then discuss each in detail.
Who typically attends a problem-discovery workshop?
Problem-discovery workshops typically involve key stakeholders from all areas of the business, such as product owners, designers, engineers, and marketing teams
How is a problem-discovery workshop structured?
A problem-discovery workshop should be structured to encourage open discussion and creative thinking. Start by introducing everyone and setting the agenda, then proceed with a brainstorming session—Foster collaboration and creativity by encouraging team members to think outside the box.
What methods are used to facilitate a problem-discovery workshop?
You can use a variety of techniques to facilitate a problem-discovery workshop. These may include brainstorming, idea mapping, and whiteboarding, amongst other methods. It is important to choose the right techniques for the specific task and ensure everyone feels comfortable participating in the discussion.
Brainstorming
Brainstorming is a group problem-solving technique to generate ideas and potential solutions to problems. The brainstorming process typically involves a group of people coming together to discuss a problem and generate ideas for solving it.
Nominal Group Technique
The Nominal Group Technique (NGT) is a group problem-solving technique used to generate ideas and potential solutions to problems. The NGT process typically involves a group of people coming together to discuss a problem and generate ideas for solving it.
Delphi Technique
The Delphi Technique is a group problem-solving technique used to generate ideas and potential solutions to problems. The Delphi Technique process typically involves a group of experts coming together to discuss a problem and generate ideas for solving it.
Six Thinking Hats
The Six Thinking Hats technique is a group problem-solving technique used to generate ideas and potential solutions to problems. The Six Thinking Hats process typically involves a group of people coming together to discuss a problem and generate ideas for solving it while wearing different coloured hats representing different viewpoints.
Affinity Diagramming
Affinity diagramming is a group problem-solving technique to organise ideas and potential solutions to problems. The affinity diagramming process typically involves a group of people coming together to discuss a problem and generate ideas for solving it, which are then organised into categories based on their similarities.
Force Field Analysis
Force field analysis is a group problem-solving technique used to analyse the forces acting on or against a particular situation. The force field analysis process typically involves a group of people coming together to discuss a problem and generate ideas for solving it. These are then analysed regarding the forces acting on or against them.
SWOT Analysis
SWOT analysis is a group problem-solving technique used to analyse a particular situation’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. The SWOT analysis process typically involves a group of people coming together to discuss a problem and generate ideas for solving it, which are then analysed in terms of their strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.
How do you prepare for a problem-discovery workshop?
Before beginning a problem-discovery workshop, it is important to ensure that everyone in attendance has the necessary knowledge and information about the issue.
It is also beneficial to create an agenda that outlines the tasks and goals of the workshop, as well as any potential activities or methods you will use to facilitate it.
Additionally, the facilitator should ensure that everyone is comfortable with the techniques that will be used and provide any necessary training or guidance beforehand.
Finally, it can be helpful to create a relaxed atmosphere by providing refreshments and breaks throughout the workshop to keep participants energised and engaged.
What are some common pitfalls of problem-discovery workshops?
Over-reliance on the facilitator
One of the most common pitfalls of problem-discovery workshops is over-reliance on the facilitator. This can lead to several problems, including participants feeling like they are not being heard, or that the workshop is not truly collaborative.
Lack of structure
Another common pitfall is the need for more structure. This can lead to participants feeling like they need help figuring out what to do, or that the workshop is not focused.
Not enough time for discovery
If there is not enough time for discovery, participants may feel like they are being rushed, or that the workshop is not truly about problem-solving.
Too much time for discovery
Conversely, if there is less time for discovery, participants may become bored or feel the workshop could be a better use of time.
Lack of clarity about the problem
If the problem is not clear, participants may become frustrated or may feel like they are not sure what they are supposed to be doing.
Lack of clarity about the goal
If the goal is unclear, participants may become confused or feel like the workshop is a waste of time.
Lack of engagement
If participants are not engaged, they may become bored or feel like the workshop wastes time.
Too much discussion
If there is too much discussion, participants may feel like they are not being heard, or that the workshop is not truly collaborative.
Not enough discussion
If there is not enough discussion, participants may feel like they are being rushed, or that the workshop is not truly about problem-solving.
How do you debrief after a problem-discovery workshop?
At the end of a problem-discovery workshop, it is important to have a debrief session to reflect on what was accomplished and review any lessons learned.
This is also an opportunity to capture any key insights or ideas that emerged during the workshop. During the debrief, it may be helpful to discuss successes and challenges and any changes that should be made for future iterations of the workshop.
Remember that the debriefing session should help foster learning and collaboration, so keeping a positive and constructive tone is important.
What are some best practices for running a successful problem-discovery workshop?
When running a problem-discovery workshop, it is important to create an open and welcoming environment.
It is also important to have clear objectives and expectations for the workshop and ground rules that foster collaboration and respect. Additionally, providing time for participants to think and reflect on their ideas can help promote creative thinking.
Finally, it is important to ensure that all participants feel comfortable participating and are allowed to contribute.
Can you give an example of a successful problem-discovery workshop?
A great example of a successful problem-discovery workshop was held at the University of Michigan. During the workshop, participants worked together to identify a specific challenge related to online education.
The workshop’s goal was for participants to develop innovative solutions and ideas for addressing this challenge. Throughout the workshop, team members engaged in open discussion and brainstorming to develop ideas. After the workshop, participants reported feeling energised and empowered by the experience.
How do you know if a problem-discovery workshop was successful?
You can measure the success of a problem-discovery workshop in several ways.
It is important to consider the workshop’s impact on participants, as well as the amount of learning and collaboration that occurred during the session.
Additionally, it is essential to look at whether or not a tangible result was achieved from the workshop—for example, if the workshop resulted in developing a new product or service.
Finally, it is important to determine if you met the goals outlined at the beginning of the workshop.
What are some common challenges that arise during problem-discovery workshops?
Several common challenges arise during problem-discovery workshops.
These include lack of clarity about the goal, lack of engagement, too much discussion, and insufficient discussion. Additionally, participants may feel overwhelmed by the information presented or come to the workshop with different levels of expertise.
How do you troubleshoot problems that occur during a problem-discovery workshop?
To troubleshoot problems that occur during a problem-discovery workshop, it is important to be flexible and open to feedback.
It is also helpful to create time buffers or dedicated time for discussion and brainstorming to ensure that everyone has adequate time to share their ideas.
Additionally, providing a set of ground rules that foster collaboration, respect, and openness can help create an environment where participants are comfortable expressing their ideas.
Finally, it is important to provide structure throughout the workshop to keep the conversation focused on the objective.
What are some tips for dealing with difficult participants in a problem-discovery workshop?
Workshops are a great way to get many people with different ideas together in one room to collaborate on a project.
For a workshop to run smoothly, it’s important to set some ground rules at the beginning. Make sure everyone knows the workshop’s objectives and that they’re respectful of each other. If someone becomes disruptive, politely ask them to stop and explain why their behaviour is inappropriate.
Feel free to ask them to leave if they can’t or won’t adhere to the ground rules. Try to keep an open mind towards all the ideas and suggestions brought up during the workshop. Be willing to compromise on certain issues to reach a consensus amongst all participants.
Avoid making any decisions during the workshop that could potentially alienate any part of the group.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your next workshop is productive and successful.
How do you deal with conflict that arises during a problem-discovery workshop?
When you’re trying to come up with solutions to a problem, it’s common for conflict to arise.
After all, when you’re exploring different ideas, it’s natural for people to have strong opinions. The key is encouraging constructive debate while maintaining a respectful and productive atmosphere. One way to do this is to start by clearly stating the ground rules.
For example, you might ask everyone to take turns speaking or agree to disagree respectfully. It can also be helpful to encourage people to focus on the problem at hand, rather than getting caught up in personal arguments. Finally, if tempers start to flare, take a break or change the subject.
By handling conflict calmly and professionally, you can ensure that your problem-discovery workshop is productive and successful.
What are some ways to make a problem-discovery workshop more inclusive and diverse?
To ensure that your problem-discovery workshop is inclusive and diverse, it’s important to create an environment where all participants feel comfortable sharing their ideas.
There are a few ways to ensure your problem-discovery workshop is more inclusive and diverse. First, make an effort to solicit input from various stakeholders, including underrepresented groups. Getting as many perspectives as possible is important to identify the widest range of potential problems.
Second, frame the workshop not just as an opportunity to identify problems, but also as an opportunity to brainstorm solutions. This can help create a more positive and productive environment.
Finally, be aware of your own biases and assumptions, and challenge them when necessary.
By taking these steps, you can ensure that your problem-discovery workshop is more inclusive and diverse and leads to more effective solutions.
How can you ensure everyone’s voices are heard during a problem-discovery workshop?
When you’re trying to solve a problem, it’s important to get everyone’s input. But that can be tricky, especially if some people are shy or have trouble speaking up in groups.
Here are a few things you can do to make sure everyone’s voices are heard during a problem-discovery workshop:
- Encourage people to write down their ideas before the workshop. This way, even introverts will have a chance to share their thoughts.
- During the workshop, go around the room and ask for input from everyone, not just those speaking up.
- If someone has trouble articulating their ideas, ask them to draw pictures or write down a few keywords. This will help you understand their perspective and ensure they feel included in the process.
By taking these steps, you can ensure that everyone’s voices are heard during a problem-discovery workshop – and that you’re more likely to come up with a solution that works for everyone.
How do you ensure that all participants feel comfortable sharing their ideas during a problem-discovery workshop?
Creating a safe and comfortable environment is key to getting the most out of your problem-discovery workshop.
One way to do this is by designing an agenda that allows for a mix of individual reflection, small group discussions, and team presentations. This will help ensure that everyone’s ideas are heard and respected.
You can also encourage participants to take turns talking, agree to disagree respectfully, and focus on the problem at hand.
Encouraging questions and soliciting feedback throughout the workshop will also help create a productive environment where participants feel comfortable sharing their ideas.
Finally, taking breaks when needed can help prevent fatigue and allow people to refocus.
What are some ways to ensure that all ideas are given equal consideration during a problem-discovery workshop?
When trying to come up with solutions to a problem, it’s important to consider all the different ideas.
That’s why problem-discovery workshops can be so helpful. They allow people to share their thoughts and develop new solutions together.
But how can you ensure everyone’s ideas are equally considered during a workshop?
One way is to keep the group small. If there are too many people, it can be hard for everyone to have a chance to speak.
Another way is to have each person write down their ideas beforehand. That way, everyone’s ideas are on paper and can be looked at and discussed evenly.
Finally, it’s important to encourage deliberation and debate. When people talk about their ideas and consider different perspectives, the best solutions tend to come about.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that all ideas are given fair consideration during a problem-discovery workshop.
How do you synthesise all ideas generated during a problem-discovery workshop into actionable next steps?
Once you have all of the ideas generated during a problem-discovery workshop, synthesising them is important to come up with actionable next steps.
First, you should group similar ideas and note differences or unique perspectives. This will help ensure that no one idea is overlooked
Next, prioritise the ideas based on their potential impact, feasibility, and urgency.
Finally, map out the next steps that need to be taken to move forward with your solution. Again, ensure to include deadlines and delegate tasks so everyone knows what needs to happen next.