Patterns & Metaphors
Problem solving conferencing
Template:
Meetings that concentrate on the solving of certain problems, rather than pursuing new objectives.
[Advantages] Problems tend to be real issues and in response to reality many creative proposals can be formulated which are in fact new technological or social inventions.
[Disadvantages] Focusing on problems can tend to obscure new objectives by simply attempting to deal with issues that hinder realization of old objectives. Many of the "problems" groups or individuals are perceived to have, are actually solutions to other unseen problems that they experience. There is always the danger of "solving" surface symptoms, which tend to escalate if the underlying issue is left untouched. It is often harder to solve a problem deliberately created by others than it is for them to find a way round the problem created by the solution.
