How can you solve complex sustainability problems?

1 Understand the problem

The first step to solving any problem is to understand its root causes, dimensions, and impacts. A problem statement can help you define the scope and objectives of your project, as well as identify the stakeholders and their needs. To write a clear and concise problem statement, you can use the 5W+H method: who, what, when, where, why, and how. For example, you can ask: who is affected by the problem and who can influence its solution? What are the main issues and indicators of the problem? When and where does the problem occur and how often? Why is the problem important and what are its consequences? How can the problem be solved and what are the potential barriers?

3 Generate solutions

The third step is to generate possible solutions that address the problem and meet the objectives. You can use various techniques to stimulate your creativity and generate ideas, such as brainstorming, mind mapping, SCAMPER, or TRIZ. The key is to diverge and explore as many options as possible, without judging or filtering them at this stage. You can also involve other stakeholders and experts in the ideation process, to gain different perspectives and insights. You can then group, categorize, and prioritize your ideas based on their feasibility, desirability, and impact.

4 Evaluate solutions

The fourth step is to evaluate the solutions and select the best one or combination of ones. You can use different criteria and methods to evaluate the solutions, such as cost-benefit analysis, multi-criteria analysis, or decision matrix. You should also consider the sustainability aspects of the solutions, such as their environmental, social, and economic impacts, as well as their alignment with the values and expectations of the stakeholders. You can use tools such as sustainability indicators, balanced scorecard, or triple bottom line to measure and compare the sustainability performance of the solutions.

5 Implement solutions

The fifth step is to implement the solutions and monitor their results. You should develop a detailed action plan that specifies the tasks, resources, responsibilities, timelines, and milestones of the implementation process. You should also communicate the plan to the stakeholders and secure their support and commitment. You should also establish a monitoring and evaluation system that tracks the progress and outcomes of the solutions, as well as the feedback and learning from the stakeholders. You can use tools such as SMART goals, KPIs, or dashboards to monitor and report the results.

6 Improve solutions

The final step is to improve the solutions based on the results and feedback. You should review the performance and impact of the solutions, as well as the challenges and lessons learned from the implementation process. You should also solicit and incorporate the feedback and suggestions from the stakeholders and experts. You should then identify the gaps, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement, and make the necessary adjustments and modifications to the solutions. You should also document and share the best practices and learnings from the project, and celebrate the achievements and successes.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?