What is the first step of the problem-solving workshop?

The initial step of a problem-solving workshop is to agree on the problem to solve. This is crucial because clearly defining the problem ensures that all participants have a shared understanding and a focused discussion. Without agreement on what the problem is, subsequent steps can lead to confusion, misalignment, and ineffective solutions.

Establishing a common problem statement helps to frame the context of the workshop and sets the stage for the next steps in the problem-solving process. It allows the team to align their priorities and efforts toward addressing the same issue, which can lead to more productive discussions and better outcomes.

After agreeing on the problem, the team can then move forward to conduct a root cause analysis, identify the biggest underlying issues, and develop solutions based on a shared understanding of the problem at hand. This foundational step is integral to ensuring the workshop's success and effectiveness.