How can you help clients evaluate options when problem solving?

1 Identify the problem

The first step is to help your client define the problem clearly and specifically. Ask them open-ended questions to understand the situation, the causes, the effects, and the desired outcome. For example, you can ask: What is the problem you are facing? How does it affect you and others? What do you want to achieve or change? By identifying the problem, you can help your client narrow down their options and focus on the most relevant ones.

2 Generate options

The next step is to help your client brainstorm as many possible options as they can to solve the problem. Encourage them to be creative and think outside the box, without judging or rejecting any idea. You can use techniques such as mind mapping, SWOT analysis, or the six thinking hats to stimulate their thinking. For example, you can ask: What are some ways you can approach this problem? What are the pros and cons of each option? What are some alternative or unconventional solutions? By generating options, you can help your client expand their perspective and explore different possibilities.

3 Evaluate options

The third step is to help your client evaluate their options and compare them based on their feasibility, effectiveness, and alignment with their values and goals. You can use tools such as decision matrices, cost-benefit analysis, or scoring systems to help them weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each option. For example, you can ask: How likely is each option to work? How much time, money, and effort will each option require? How does each option fit with your vision and values? By evaluating options, you can help your client make an informed and rational decision.

4 Test options

The fourth step is to help your client test their options and see how they work in practice. You can help them design experiments, simulations, or prototypes to test their assumptions and hypotheses. You can also help them identify criteria, indicators, and feedback mechanisms to measure the results and outcomes of each option. For example, you can ask: How can you test each option before implementing it? What are the expected and actual results of each option? How can you collect and analyze feedback from yourself and others? By testing options, you can help your client validate and refine their solutions.

5 Choose an option

The fifth step is to help your client choose an option and commit to it. You can help them review their evaluation and testing results and select the option that best meets their needs and preferences. You can also help them anticipate and prepare for any potential risks, challenges, or obstacles that may arise from their choice. For example, you can ask: Which option do you feel most confident and comfortable with? What are the benefits and drawbacks of your choice? How can you overcome any difficulties or setbacks? By choosing an option, you can help your client take action and move forward.

6 Review the process

The sixth step is to help your client review the process and reflect on their learning and growth. You can help them assess the effectiveness and impact of their chosen option and celebrate their achievements and successes. You can also help them identify and apply the lessons and insights they gained from the problem solving process. For example, you can ask: How did your chosen option solve the problem? How do you feel about the outcome and your performance? What did you learn from this experience? How can you use this learning in the future? By reviewing the process, you can help your client improve their problem solving skills and confidence.

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?