The step-by-step process

Solution Phase has five steps. The first three (Divergence, Structuring, Convergence) are the intellectual work of finding and defining the solution. The last two (External validation, Internal validation) are the alignment work that turns a good idea into a shared mandate.

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Step 1. Divergence: generate without filtering

Generate as many solutions as possible without filtering, using techniques like How Might We, Crazy 8s, and reverse brainstorming.

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Step 2. Structuring: decompose to understand

Organize and decompose ideas across four dimensions (business, model, architecture, data), and classify assumptions by risk level.

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Step 3. Convergence: decide with explicit criteria

Evaluate structured candidate solutions against a weighted Decision Matrix to select the best option.

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Step 4. Client validation

Present the chosen solution to real users and iterate until they confirm it solves the problem they live with.

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Step 5. Internal stakeholder validation — real consensus

Achieve real consensus where stakeholders understand, accept, and commit to supporting the solution.

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