
Discover the logical thinking process for solving complex problems and formulating strategy, learn how the method works, and see it demonstrated with a simple everyday example.
Apply cause-and-effect logic to decisions using a visual tree; learn the five tools of the logical thinking process, grounded in the theory of constraints thinking processes for strategic problem solving.
Apply the logical thinking process to everyday problem solving by defining goals with a goal tree, identifying critical success factors, and evaluating causes via the necessity relationship.
Clarifies goals by mapping them to critical success factors and necessary conditions, using arrows to show necessary relationships and directing focus to crucial problems for improvement.
Identify root causes of problems using the current reality tree by tracing multiple undesirable effects to a single root cause, then remove it to eliminate linked issues.
Identify a conflict, apply the evaporating cloud to dissolve it, and expose hidden assumptions through rigorous reasoning, clarifying goal–requirement relationships in the logical thinking process.
Identify conflicts using the evaporating cloud, distinguish needs from wants, and craft injections that satisfy requirements while validating with future reality and prerequisite trees.
Use a future reality tree to verify solutions, anticipate negative branches and loops, and adjust injections like sewer replacement and pavement repair to reach the goal.
Apply the prerequisite tree to build a step-by-step implementation plan for a part of the future reality tree, revealing and addressing obstacles in the way.
Utilize the five tools of the logical thinking process—goal tree, current reality tree, evaporating cloud, future reality tree, prerequisite tree—to uncover root causes and resolve conflicts toward lasting solutions.
Clarify reasoning at every stage to improve analysis and strategy. Present results with detailed visuals showing flaws and linking the five tools into a precise, coherent framework.
Apply the logical thinking process to Icelandair's case study, exposing two root causes: hub-and-spoke balance flaws and a local-optimum paradigm, amplified by lack of thorough analysis.
Apply the logical thinking process with a validating checklist to scrutinize analysis and validate each connection, illustrated by a business case identifying root causes behind a failed strategy.
Bias and incomplete analysis are the two key problems in decision-making and problem-solving. Most of the frameworks used by organisations fail to address those shortcomings. To address them, logical rigour and meticulous verification of statements are needed. This requires effective collaboration and visual representation tools and a clear and strict process.
This course explains how to use visual diagrams and a structured process to make better decisions and come to more robust conclusions.
The course is based on the powerful Logical Thinking Process methodology for complex problem solving and strategy formulation. The Logical Thinking Process is comprised of five steps, starting with defining a goal, moving on to logical root cause analysis, through conflict resolution, finishing with a robust execution analysis. It is applicable both in complex corporate environments as well as in personal life. The Logical Thinking Process is grounded in the pioneering work of Dr. Eli Goldratt, author of bestselling business novel The Goal.
The process is explained by using a simple everyday example that covers all the five steps of the process, from defining a sound goal to outlining an execution plan. The course covers the basic principles of the process and the strengths that set it apart from conventional methodologies.
The course includes a business case study that explains the importance of meticulous analysis before a decision is made and how the Logical Thinking Process is used to analyse problems to identify the root causes behind them.
The Logical Thinking Process has been used by businesses for over 30 years to analyze and find solutions to difficult problems. If you learn how to use the framework and practice at it, it is amazing how quickly it becomes an integral part of how you approach complex problems and present your ideas and analyses.
You will be surprised when you experience the advantage it gives you.
Thorsteinn Siglaugsson is a certified expert in the Logical Thinking Process, author of "From Symptoms to Causes - Applying the Logical Thinking Process to an Everyday Problem", and collaborates closely with Bill Dettmer, the author of the methodology.
This course is intended as an introduction to the Logical Thinking Process. Upon finishing the course you should have a good general understanding of the methodology and its key strengths, and how to use it in your own decision-making and problem-solving.