In Isaksen and Treffinger's approach to problem solving, what is the first step?

In Isaksen and Treffinger's approach to problem solving, the first step is mess finding. This stage is crucial as it involves identifying and understanding the problem or situation that needs to be addressed. It requires a thorough exploration of the context, the complexities involved, and the various factors that contribute to the "mess."

By focusing on mess finding initially, individuals and teams can ensure they have a clear and comprehensive understanding of the challenges at hand, which sets the foundation for further steps in the problem-solving process. This emphasis on understanding the issue deeply aids in defining the scope of the problem, ultimately guiding more effective solutions and creative approaches in subsequent stages.

The significance of this step lies in its role in shaping the problem-solving journey, as a well-defined problem often leads to more innovative and practical solutions later in the process.