A decision tree can help you branch out to solve problems

A logic or decision tree can help you tackle a problem by breaking possible solutions down into parts and following those parts down new paths. The process of decision tree analysis is simple — get your team’s thoughts out about the problem or question, offer solutions or answers, and generate ideas about how to achieve them.

First, you need to define the problem or question, and that requires brainstorming with your team. A Post-it® Tabletop Easel Pad is excellent for small group brainstorming — it can be propped on a table or moved around as needed, and is perfect for on-the-fly thinking and editing. A logic tree can answer two kinds of questions — “Why?” or “How? The clearer and more specific your question, the better it will work in your logic tree. ­Once your team settles on a question, write it at the top of the easel pad.

Now it’s time to think of potential answers to your big question. Using one color of Post-it® Super Sticky Notes 3 in. x 3 in., have everyone jot down possible answers and stick them beneath the question. While you brainstorm and discuss, the notes can easily be moved around, re-stuck, or rearranged. Chat about those answers, and then choose at least two or three that seem the most relevant. Remove the other notes and set them aside.

Next, with a different color of Post-it® Super Sticky Notes 3 in. x 3 in., elaborate on some solutions with your team and stick them underneath the answers. As your decision tree template starts taking shape, the varying colors will help your team visualize the relationships between answers and solutions — and because the notes are super sticky, rearranging on the fly is no problem. Connect the related answers and solutions by drawing simple branches between the notes so it begins to look like a family tree. Some of your logic paths might end here, and that’s okay — but dig deeper if you need to!

At this point, you can get down to brass tacks. How do you make your solutions reality? As you discuss specific action steps that relate to the solutions, write them down on Post-it® Super Sticky Lined Notes 4 in. x 4 in. and distribute the lists among team members. The lined notes are perfect for making orderly lists, and they can easily be stuck inside a planner or on a calendar to help keep things front and center.

The decision tree can be a powerful exercise to help you and your teams with problem solving. Post-it® Products are the right tools to turn thoughts into action, and to help you make your mark on the world by following these easy steps:
 

1. Ask a question
2. Brainstorm possible answers
3. Collaborate toward a solution
4. Take action!