productive-thinking-model

name	productive-thinking-model
description	Use the productive thinking model to solve defined problems creatively through a structured six-step process. Use when clarifying what is going on, defining success, generating questions, and selecting solutions.
license	MIT
metadata	{"author":"itzcull"}

Productive Thinking Model

Overview

• Category: Problem Solving Tool
• Created by: Tim Hurson
• Purpose: Solve problems creatively and efficiently through structured, critical thinking

When to Use

Best used when:

• A problem is already defined
• You're looking for creative solutions

6-Step Framework

1. Ask "What's Going On?"

• Understand the problem deeply
• Key questions to explore:
  • What's the exact problem?
  • What's the problem's impact?
  • What information do you already have?
  • Who is involved?
  • What's the vision when the problem is solved?

2. Ask "What's Success?"

Use the DRIVE framework:

• Do: What should the solution do?
• Restrictions: What must it NOT do?
• Invest: What resources are available?
• Values: What principles matter?
• Essential outcomes: What are the key results?

3. Ask "What's the Question?"

• Generate "catalytic questions"
• Use phrases like "How might we...?" or "How can I...?"

4. Generate Answers

• Brainstorm potential solutions
• Collect ideas without judgment

5. Forge the Solution

• Evaluate ideas against success criteria
• Use a decision matrix to select best solutions
• Refine chosen solution

6. Align Resources

• Specify necessary actions
• Identify responsible people
• Create detailed execution plan

Example Scenario

Winning a prospective customer with challenging requirements:

1. Understand situation
2. Define success criteria
3. Generate key questions
4. Brainstorm solutions
5. Choose best approach (e.g., hands-on product demo)
6. Plan resource allocation

Source

"Think Better: An Innovator's Guide to Productive Thinking" by Tim Hurson

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Source: https://untools.co/productive-thinking-model/