Framework thinking

The problem solving process involves "defining the problem, generating solutions, evaluating options, and implementing a solution."

Framework thinking is a method of problem solving and decision making that involves using pre-defined structures, or frameworks, to analyze situations and develop solutions. It's about structuring your thoughts and approaching complex issues with a clear, organized approach, rather than relying on intuition or guesswork. This allows for more efficient and effective decision-making, especially when dealing with complex or unfamiliar problems."

"A thinking framework is a structured approach or model that helps organize thoughts, analyze information, and solve problems. It provides a mental roadmap for processing information, making decisions, and developing solutions, often by breaking down complex issues into smaller, more manageable parts. Frameworks can be used in various contexts, from personal problem-solving to professional design and strategic planning."

SWOT analysis (A framework used to evaluate strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats in a business context) and the 5 Whys (A technique for identifying the root cause of a problem by repeatedly asking "why") are examples of framework thinking.

The book The Decision Book: Fifty Models for Strategic Thinking provides 50 frameworks/mental models for decision making and problem solving.

Journal article

• An integrated critical thinking framework for the 21st century, Thinking Skills and Creativity. Volume 12, June 2014, Pages 43-52 (PDF copy with diagrams)

See also

• Structural thinking

Book

• The Decision Book: Fifty Models for Strategic Thinking by Mikael Krogerus and Roman Tschäppeler. W. W. Norton & Company; May 8, 2018
• Frameworks for Thinking: A Handbook for Teaching and Learning by David Moseley, Vivienne Baumfield, Julian Elliott, Steven Higgins, Jen Miller, Douglas P. Newton and Maggie Gregson. Cambridge University Press. January 2, 2006

External links

• Framework Thinking: An Overview
• How do you select the right critical thinking framework?
• The universal thinking framework
• Understanding Frameworks: How to Create and Examples
• Thinking Frameworks
• How to Think Fast Before You Speak: Framework Thinking
• Framework thinking

Books:

• PDF of Frameworks for Thinking: A Handbook for Teaching and Learning by Mikael Krogerus and Roman Tschäppeler

Videos:

• Framework thinking - video playlist, Video playlist