Solutionspinning

Solutionspinning is a problem-solving approach that emphasizes generating and evaluating multiple, diverse solution paths by rotating or spinning through alternative assumptions and design spaces. The aim is to avoid premature commitment to a single idea and to reveal trade-offs among feasibility, cost, risk, and resilience.

In practice, it begins with a clear problem statement and constraints. A set of solution sketches is produced, including unconventional or disruptive options. The next step is to spin through these sketches by perturbing constraints, swapping roles of variables, or applying alternative success criteria, in order to test robustness.

Each candidate is evaluated using predefined metrics, with attention to failure modes and dependencies. The process may iterate, narrowing to a robust option or small set of viable alternatives for refinement or prototyping. Tools such as scenario analysis, decision matrices, and cross-functional review often accompany solutionspinning. For example, in designing a water filtration system, solutionspinning might compare mechanical filtration, chemical treatment, and biological filtration, rotating emphasis on cost, maintenance, and footprint.

Solutionspinning is used in engineering design, software development, policy planning, and education to foster creative thinking and resilience. It emphasizes diversification and critical testing of ideas, but can be time-intensive and relies on skilled facilitation and clear evaluation criteria.