Strategic Problem Solving

Clarifying a complex problem and developing solutions in an agile mode

This workshop offers a set of concepts and techniques to address strategic challenges. It integrates three methods, each tailored to specific contexts and objectives: the Hypothesis pyrapid, the Issue tree, and Design Thinking. It provides both practical tools and insights from behavioral sciences.

  • "The course 'Strategic Thinking' is interesting and impressive! The knowledge that I've learned from this course is something that I can't acquire from my daily work. The methodologies and theories in this course, such as the approach to solving problems, could be very useful to my work."

    Canming L., Mechanical Design Engineer - MSc. Innovation & Entrepreneurship, École Polytechnique

  • "It seems to me like this type of class discussing problem-solving should be taught in every university, in any major or field of study. I wish I had a course like this before, it would have helped me in many aspects!"

    Gabriella R., MSc Business Transformation for Sustainability KEDGE BS. / Biochemistry Graduate from the University of Colorado

  • "I had fun and feel like I will remember the content of this course for a very very long time. So thank you for taking the time to structure it this way. Very helpful!"

    Shivani K., MSc. Business Transformation for Sustainability KEDGE BS. / Sciences Po Paris graduate

  • "This course has proven to be an incredibly enriching experience that has profoundly augmented my professional skill set and my aptitude for approaching issues from an analytical standpoint. I am firmly convinced that the knowledge I have acquired will be invaluable in my future career endeavors."

    Jules B., MSc. Business Transformation for Sustainability KEDGE BS, Assistant Product Manager at L’Oréal

  • "Reflecting on the program's impact, my expectations have been thoroughly met and surpassed. This comprehensive program has equipped me with essential tools and insights for strategic problem- solving and effective report writing, thereby bolstering my confidence in tackling complex consulting tasks."

    Laurena C., MSc. Business Transformation for Sustainability, KEDGE BS

  • "The fusion of theoretical frameworks, practical experiences, and inventive methodologies has furnished me with a nuanced grasp of maneuvering through the intricacies of change, refining problem-solving methodologies, integrating design thinking into consultancy, and formulating compelling final reports."

    Romain G., MSc. Business Transformation for Sustainability, KEDGE BS.

Program content

    • Into the mind of decision-makers: Understanding "thinking fast and thinking slow" in human decision-making.

    • Three approaches to solve complex problems: issue trees, hypothesis pyramids, and design thinking.

    • The 4S method to analyze complex problems, develop solutions, and convincing stakeholders

    • Tools and techniques to clarify the issue

    • Listening actively to stakeholders and getting them to talk to deepen your understanding of the problem

    • Writing a project brief to solve the problem

    • The pyramid principle: Applying issue trees and hypothesis pyramids to structure your analysis.

    • Agile project management: Using agile methodologies to develop an insightful solution.

    • Data collection and analysis: Conducting desktop analysis, interviews, and surveys to gather and analyze relevant data.

    • Two perspectives on agile innovation: User-centered design (Brown) and meaning-driven design (Verganti)

    • The principles of design-based innovation:

    • A step-by-step method to conceive new products, services, or experiences

    • Communicate with clients: Use agile principles to maintain effective communication with your client during the writing process

    • Choose the right format for your consulting report

    • Structure your report and write with style to make your report clear, effective, and reader-friendly

    • Prepare persuasive stories: Techniques to create impactful and persuasive presentations.

    • Engage stakeholders: Methods to gain buy-in and support from key stakeholders.

Three reasons to participate in this program

  • Complex problem-solving is among the most important skill for MBA graduates, according to recruiters (source: Financial Times). This skill will become even more important in the future according to a World Economic Forum report.

  • A Bloomberg survey highlights that creative and strategic thinking are considered by recruiters of MBA students as hard to find. It is not surprising that the best consulting firms dedicate significant resources to training and coaching their consultants.

  • This program relies on research findings in cognitive and behavioral sciences, which are sometimes counterintuitive. It will enable participants to adopt an evidence-based approach to solving complex-problems.

Key skills sought after by recruiters of MBA graduates

Source: Bloomberg