Using the Sun to Focus on the Problem

​Colleagues,
 
Once we identify stakeholders, it’s time to expand the possible reasons causing our issue by using a sunburst.
 
Our goal is to generate as many ideas as possible. Begin by creating a sunburst diagram with you issue in the center phrased as “Why is x issue happening?”
 
With stakeholders, develop a list of all the possible reasons. 
 
There are three challenges in this part of the process:

1. We rush to judgement (“that’s it!”) and cut the process short.
2. We don’t hear form everyone. Some people naturally sit back and assimilate what others are saying. They often produce critical insights, but only towards the end of the process. 
3. We censor our ideas by analyzing them.

 
Here are some best practices to help:

1. Make your goal to get as many ideas as possible.
2. Stay focused on generation and avoid analysis
3. Monitor who participates and who doesn’t. Invite silent voices into the process. Create space by using silence (11 seconds) to provide people to think.

 
If you can’t do this with stake holders present, here are some options:

• Frame the issue and ask for ideas by email. Compile all the ideas and reshare for a second round.
• Put up a poster in a space that people will have access to. Leave it up for a period of time that allows people to contribute asynchronously.
• Seek out a missing member individually, record their ideas and add to the diagram.

 
How to take shortcuts for a minor issue:

• Decrease the number of stakeholders.
• Shorten the process to a few minutes.
• If nor urgent, do it asynchronously (email, etc…).

 
Your turn! Assemble your stakeholders and develop a sunburst. I’ve included an example here. 
 
I would love to see what you came up with so please consider using the links below to share. 
 
If you have questions, let me know and I can address them.
 
Do good and be well,
 
Frederick