The Simpler the Solution Seems, the Less You Understand

This chapter discusses the tendency many people and leaders have to come up with a quick solution that often fails to reflect the complexity of the problem being solved. It discusses the importance of understanding the problem as fully as possible in order to develop the right solution. This is a deeper dive into problem-solving through problem understanding. The chapter emphasizes the avoidance of quick fixes or overly simplified problem-solving. It introduces the principle of “go-and-see” – both why this is important and which specific circumstances warrant this approach. It also touches on problem understanding solutions involved in Rapid Improvement Events and Visual Management.