Why Groups Fail at Problem Solving: Here’s How You Can Fix It and Avoid Bad Meetings
What’s happening in your brain when you’re intuitively solving a problem — and why this fails with groups.
Have you ever tried to solve a problem with a group of people, only to find that it’s a complete disaster?
There’s a reason this happens.
When we solve problems on our own, we’re using an unconscious methodology that doesn’t translate well to group settings. You’re moving through different steps in a process — but in a decidedly non-linear fashion.
Most of this happens below conscious awareness. It works beautifully if we’re on our own, but breaks down when you’re trying to solve problems with a group of people.
The Five Stages of Intuitive Problem Solving
1. Define the Problem
2. Generate Solutions
3. Evaluate Solutions
4. Pick a Solution
5. Make a Plan
Most people use these stages when they’re trying to solve a problem, but we’re doing it intuitively and therefore don’t realize that we’re doing it.
