Analyzing Problems

“I’ve had a lot of worries in my life, most of which never happened.” – Mark Twain

I’d like to introduce you to the question toolkit for analyzing problems that I call Two Extremes and the Mean. When considering any major problem, it is useful to consider these three potential end-games.

1) What is the worst possible thing that could happen? Consider the bleakest consequence. What steps can be taken to decrease the possibility of this occurring?

2) What is the best case scenario? Stay objective when answering this; however, consider the optimum solution and the methods that would increase the likelihood of producing this end result.

3) What is the most likely outcome? Why do you think this is the case? Consider all the known variables and analyze your assumptions. Then decide, if this is it what does occur, what are the next steps to take.

 
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