Scientific Method: A Saner Way to Go?

This is post 2 of 4: Series on methods of Solving Problems in complex world.

Post 1: Help: How do I get out of this Mess?

Rational Methods

All these methods are derivatives of the Scientific Method. The method can be described as:

• Recognize a need- It could be a gap in knowledge, retesting an old hypothesis, connecting two variables, etc.
• Define the Problem- The sharper you can make the problem definition, the better the chances of success.
• Develop a solution, to test- These solutions are usually related to theories, laws, concepts and broad knowledge in the field.
• Develop a method to test viability of solution.
• Apply the methodology.
• Compare the results with the expected results- Accept or reject the viability of the original solution.
• Summarize the findings- Relate the results to the body of knowledge in the field and suggest next steps and improvements.

The rational methods are considered more “realistic” because the facts can be verified and therefore portray the situation “as is”. Since the method uses deductive power of logic, reasoning and calculations, it is considered more predictive. It is supposed to be unencumbered by sentiment, superstition and dogma; thus a “saner” approach.

Ironically, in my conversations with some top scientists; they confess that the Scientific method is how they write the papers. Their actual process of scientific discovery is quite haphazard!

In a harried world we want answers. No wonder the business field is full of “rational” method for solving problems. Undoubtedly you have been exposed to or used many of them.

Exemplar

Budgeting is the exemplar of the “rational” problem solving techniques. A budget is a plan for the future income and expenditures that can be used as a guideline for spending and projections of profit. It is an organization’s process of making decisions on allocating its resources.

Other methods are:

• Strategic Planning
• Attribute Listing
• Six Sigma
• Kaizan
• Force Field Analysis
• Root Cause Analysis

They all follow the step-by-step rational approach to problem solving and do have their place in the running of a business. The detailed steps of these methods can be found by simply searching for them by name.

However, many problems are just too complex and too interacting for rational logical solutions. The biggest short coming of these are that they work in a systematized environment. The world is not proceeding in a linear fashion. Most entrepreneurs are not entering into the arena to do incremental things. They may be disruptive to the status quo. We need new insights and newer tools that can “connect the dots”in a non-linear world.

Ironically, in my conversations with some top scientists; they confess that the Scientific method is how they write the papers. Their actual process of scientific discovery is quite haphazard!

As a mentor you must counsel the mentees into the value as well as the limitations of the “rational” approach to approaching their problems.

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Dr. Rajiv Tandon is an Entrepreneur, Educator and Mentor. He facilitates peer groups for CEOs of fast-growing companies in Minnesota. To learn more, sign up to get the email newsletter.