A solid methodology for diagnosing problems before solving them, with practical frameworks that help organizations break cycles of ineffective fixes, though limited in scope for individual applications.
What works
• Research-backed diagnostic framework that addresses cognitive biases in problem identification
• Practical tools and exercises that translate concepts into actionable methodology
• Systematic approach that builds logically from basic concepts to comprehensive process
• Professional writing style that maintains accessibility without oversimplification
• Strong foundation for addressing recurring organizational problems
What doesn't
• Limited application guidance for individual performance issues versus organizational problems
• Case studies feel somewhat sanitized and could benefit from more detailed failure examples
• Requires significant time investment and organizational buy-in that may not suit crisis situations
• Framework may feel overly deliberate for experienced managers comfortable with rapid decision-making