From our perspective, a more effective approach flips the script. Instead of starting with the technology, organizations benefit from taking a step back and beginning with the challenges—specifically, the challenges faced by the people who interact with the process, system, or product. This kind of problem-first mindset doesn’t reject technology; it simply ensures that the technology is applied meaningfully. By focusing first on understanding the problem, organizations can then explore the best solutions—whether technological or otherwise—with a clear sense of purpose.
One way we see this play out effectively is through frameworks like the Triple Diamond approach. It structures innovation into three key phases:
Problem Discovery: Everything begins with defining the challenge. This means deeply understanding the problem people are experiencing, rather than jumping to assumptions. Often, the real issue lies beneath the surface, and investing time here can save significant effort down the line.
Solution Discovery: Once the problem is well-defined, it’s time to explore potential solutions. This isn’t about finding the flashiest technology but validating concepts that genuinely address the identified challenge. Prototyping, testing, and gathering feedback are critical here to ensure the solution is both practical and effective.
Design & Development: Only after the solution has been validated does the actual building begin. By this stage, the risk of failure is reduced because the solution aligns with real-world needs. The result is an innovative approach that is both sustainable and impactful.
Taking a problem-first approach is not about slowing down innovation—it’s about making innovation work harder. By addressing the root causes of challenges, organizations can avoid wasting resources on solutions that aren’t fit for purpose.
In practice, this mindset can lead to:
As organizations look toward the next wave of transformation, the temptation to dive into the latest tools will always be there. But the question to ask is not “What’s new?” but rather “What’s needed?” Real innovation isn’t just about adopting technology—it’s about understanding the bigger picture, starting with the problem, and ensuring every step along the way is guided by purpose.
