How to Design Better Problems (to Get Better Solutions!): Secrets From UX Design

Master Problem Solving: A Designer's Approach

Are you frequently stuck when facing challenges? Do you find yourself struggling to effectively clarify and simplify complex issues? This course equips you with the skills to become a more confident and effective problem-solver, drawing on the proven methodologies used by designers.

We all encounter problems – from software glitches and financial concerns to difficult client requests and even global challenges. Often, the way we think about a problem – how we define it, describe it, and approach it – is what keeps us feeling stuck.

This course teaches you to re-state, re-examine, and ultimately re-define problems in a systematic way. Learn to identify the core of any challenge and focus on the most impactful aspects to solve. We'll explore how design thinking principles can be applied to any situation, leading to more creative and actionable solutions.

Key Concepts & Techniques You'll Learn:

• Priorities Approach: Determine the most critical aspects of a problem.
• Reverse Engineering Approach: Work backward from the desired outcome to identify the root cause.
• Design Thinking Approach: Embrace a human-centered approach to problem definition and solution generation.
• Clearest Issue Only Approach: Focus on the most pressing issue to streamline the problem-solving process.
• Three Bears Approach: Identify what's essential, what's too much, and what's too little.
• Just the Facts Approach: Eliminate assumptions and focus on verifiable information.

Practical Application:

You'll complete a hands-on project where you'll apply these techniques to problems from your work, personal life, and a "wild card" scenario. You'll leave with:

• Six different ways to re-define problems.
• A clear framework for applying these methods to any situation.
• A methodical mindset for tackling challenges.

Who is this course for?

This course is ideal for:

• Product Designers: Refine user interface issues and improve product usability.
• Engineers: Troubleshoot technical challenges and optimize system performance.
• Small Business Owners: Overcome operational hurdles and improve business strategy.
• Anyone seeking personal development: Gain clarity and direction in personal challenges.
• Anyone who feels stuck at the beginning of a problem.

Materials Needed:

Simply need a place to write (paper/pen or digital notebook) and a system for tracking ideas and next steps.

Stop feeling overwhelmed by problems. Unlock your potential as a problem-solving expert and start designing the solutions you need. Learn to see through the surface to the heart of the problem and create high-value outcomes. Become a problem-solving Jedi!