Framework · Working definition
Core Thinking Practices
Definition
The Core Thinking Practices are four prompts for inquiry: understand the big picture, surface limiting beliefs, seek systemic change, and evolve a shared vision. Use them to examine a decision rather than as a script for every conversation.
Put a question to work
Understand the big picture: What are we trying to improve, and what else might change?
Surface limiting beliefs: What are we assuming, and what would make us reconsider?
Seek systemic change: What would cause this problem to return after our proposed fix?
Evolve a shared vision: What would a good result look like for the people affected?
Check what the question changes
Capture what the question revealed and whether it affected the decision. Asking many questions does not establish good judgment. The question needs to be relevant to the situation.
Compare examples of questions and their purposes.
This remains a working definition pending Mike's review of the framework wording.
Related concepts
- Core Abilities · Three ways of working through a decision: test the explanation, consider alternatives, and trace consequences.
- What-to-think vs. how-to-think · Knowledge supports judgment. Practice gives people opportunities to use it when the answer is not already supplied.
- The Thinking Effect · Examine an assumption, make a decision, learn from what happens, and try again.
Where this comes up
Bring a real problem
What does your learning need to change?
A role people are struggling with. A decision that keeps going wrong. A capability you need to see before giving someone more responsibility. Start there.