{"id":168519,"date":"2023-06-09T06:00:00","date_gmt":"2023-06-09T11:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ict-pulse.com\/?p=168519"},"modified":"2023-06-08T17:31:28","modified_gmt":"2023-06-08T22:31:28","slug":"unleashing-the-power-of-ecosystems-5-reasons-to-rethink-problem-solving","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ict-pulse.com\/2023\/06\/unleashing-the-power-of-ecosystems-5-reasons-to-rethink-problem-solving\/","title":{"rendered":"Unleashing the power of ecosystems: 5 reasons to rethink problem-solving"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The typical approach to problem-solving is to isolate a problem and develop solutions. But in our increasingly complex and interconnected world, our approach to problem-solving requires a shift in perspective.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Increasingly, problem-solving is a skill that is in demand, especially in the workplace. Many of the situations we encounter have several moving parts, and accordingly, numerous details that ought to be considered and managed in devising possible solutions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, a frequently observed approach to problem-solving is to try to isolate what is believed to be the problem, and thereafter, find a very confined solution. However, in today’s complex and interconnected world, that approach has resulted in among other things, problems being poorly understood with ineffective solutions being implemented \u2013 evidenced by the number of both public and private sector projects across the Caribbean region that have faded into obscurity after the fanfare of their launch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In many of the discussions we have had on innovation, one of the crucial requirements that has emerged is ensuring that the problem one is trying to solve is properly and clearly understood. However, problems rarely occur solely on their own. They exist and manifest within a wider system often comprising an intricate web of interdependent relationships: in which they are being affected by other systems and factors, whilst also having an impact on other systems and processes. Hence, understanding the context in which issues exist is vital to effective problem-solving. We will thus explore five reasons why we need to think more about the concept of ecosystems when problem-solving.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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1.  Embracing the interconnectedness of things<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

As much as we might inherently appreciate the interconnectedness of various systems, we appear to choose to disregard that reality when trying o address an issue. However, as indicated above, problems rarely exist in isolation. Often, they are part of a broader network of factors and influences, which can only be understood when there is a broader or more holistic perspective on the situation and the factors involved.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Usually, there are hidden connections, ripple effects, and upstream and downstream bottlenecks or factors that will only be understood when there is a more comprehensive understanding of the problem. In thinking more about the ecosystem in which a problem exists and trying to find workable solutions for that context would reduce the unintended (and negative) consequences that may arise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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2.  Encouraging more sustainable solutions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When we problem solve very narrowly, at best, we are liable to have a short-term solution. When circumstances change or evolve, which is happening at faster rates in this day and age, our solutions can become dated and lose their relevance. Approaching problems with the ecosystem in mind is more likely to result in more sustainable solutions that consider, among other things<\/p>\n\n\n\n