The power of asking 'What If?' more regularly

How L&D can unlock their transformational powers by asking better questions

There has never been a better time for learning and development teams to showcase their impact more effectively. As the need for better and higher quality data continues to strengthen, L&D are in a unique position to act as data gathers, build relationships, and consider wider-scale organisational impact. However, one simple trick that often goes overlooked is the ability to ask ‘What if?’ more regularly.

When was the last time you asked ‘What if…?’ when working on a project or in a team meeting?

This simple question can unlock a huge amount of possibilities. It can foster innovation. It can make you more adaptable. And it can allow you to think about the bigger picture within your business. In this article we will explore why L&D teams should integrate the practice of asking "what if?" into their regular routines and the transformative impact it can have.

Fostering a culture of innovation through problem solving

At the heart of every progressive business lies a culture of innovation. By consistently asking more open ended questions, using “why?” or “what if?” as frames of reference, L&D teams can nurture a mindset that encourages creativity and exploration. This type of questioning prompts individuals to envision alternative scenarios, challenge the status quo, and think beyond conventional boundaries.

Consider the example of content development. When L&D teams incorporate "What if?" scenarios into their approach to content they invite themselves to think outside the box, consider alternative use cases, and highlight potential improvements. “What if this content didn’t exist?” or “Why are we approaching this project in this way?” could certainly open up a new realm of conversation. This proactive approach can lead to ideas that may not have surfaced in a more traditional, constraint-bound environment.There’s certainly comfort in the expected, but if you allow yourself to test your assumptions you might end up in a very different place.

This mode of questioning actually encourages a deeper level of problem solving, because you are able to identify the root cause of supposed problems in ways that you may not have been able to if you avoided asking these broader questions. Problem solving consistently comes out as a top skill required for any L&D professional, and this ability allows you to approach challenges with a fresh perspective.

Driving continuous improvement and adapting to change

Continuous improvement is a fundamental principle in both personal and organisational development. The iterative process of assessing and refining strategies, processes, and systems can significantly enhance efficiency and effectiveness. L&D teams can drive this process by regularly asking better questions of themselves and the work they do.

One way to step outside your comfort zone is to think of as many “What if?” or “Why?” questions to a given scenario at any one time and then choose one to explore as a team or a group. It’s an effective way to shift your thinking, and unlock improvements that you may not have thought about along the way.

Always digging deeper ensures that any initiatives you are involved in remain relevant and effective when dealing with evolving business needs and technological advancements. Through consistently refining and updating training methods for example, L&D teams can address current skills gaps and anticipate future requirements, ensuring that employees are equipped with the most up-to-date knowledge and competencies. This adaptability not only enhances the overall effectiveness of training programs but also fosters a culture of learning within the business. 

Such a focus on continuous improvement in L&D programs directly contributes to an organisation’s competitive edge, too. Innovating and remaining agile is crucial at the moment, and creating a culture in which people are continuously learning is crucial. And whilst ‘learning culture’ might be something we’re all striving to create, L&D can turn the tables and look at how they’re doing this in the work they are doing every day. 

Questioning the way things have been done before and acknowledging that things rapidly change will only serve you and your team in the long run. After all, “change is the only constant in the modern business world” - a fact ChatGPT often likes to highlight in it’s answers.

Using “What if?” to simulate various scenarios and develop strategies for different outcomes will strengthen this adaptability. For example, asking "What if our key competitor starts to do  this better than us?" can lead to strategic planning that positions your team to respond more effectively. This kind of forward-thinking is crucial.

Improving decision making

Informed decision-making is crucial for achieving organisational objectives. The ability to consider multiple scenarios and outcomes leads to more robust and effective decisions. Asking "what if?" can encourage you to analyse multiple possibilities and their implications. For instance, when designing a new training program, questions like "What if we blended online and in-person sessions?" can lead to a more flexible and accessible learning experience. A thorough exploration of options ensures that decisions are well-rounded and considerate of diverse perspectives.

Similarly, asking better questions promotes a culture of continuous improvement and reflective practice. Questions such as "What if we approached this challenge differently?" or "Why don’t we consider using emerging technologies to enhance these learning outcomes?" can stimulate more questioning, innovative thinking and adaptive strategies. This approach not only helps in crafting more effective and relevant training initiatives but also ensures that you remain responsive. By consistently challenging the status quo and seeking to understand the broader implications of your decisions, you can foster a more dynamic, informed, and proactive decision-making environment, ultimately driving better outcomes for the entire organisation.

What would happen if you started to include “What if?” questions in what you do?

Would you see more innovation? 

Would your approach to problem solving change?

This simple question has the power to transform the way you learn and develop as a function, and in the way you show up for those you serve. It also encourages lifelong learning, improves decision-making, and facilitates strategic thinking.

The ability to envision alternative scenarios and explore new possibilities is invaluable. By embracing this practice, you can unlock the full potential of your team and your workforce, and drive sustained organisational success.