Why Ask Why?
Short in stature but tall in ideas, I heard and watched Josh Linkner expand on the topic of creativity, innovation and solving real problems by challenging the norm and asking why or why not? As he stated in his presentation, the only way to address real problems is to not accept the way things are but challenge the everyday norm to solve real problems and make life better or easier for humanity- breaking everyday paradigms. Innovation comes from solving a problem with a unique solution. This can be easier said than done.
Five Times is All it Takes
Mr. Linkner also highlighted a methodology to aid in break through ideas. The methodology that all those trained in an engineering discipline are taught as part of an engineering dogma, the 5 Whys? The method; when there is a challenge or to breakout of an established routine, start asking 'Why?'. After the fifth 'Why', like an archaeologist uncovering a hidden treasure, you excavate the root cause or the real challenge. At that point you are able to define, design and develop a solution. This method was originally developed by Sakichi Toyoda, the founder of Toyota, and is used extensively by Toyota Motor Company.
Toothbrush and Toothpaste: a Doomed Matrimony
My recent 'Why': Why do we have two separate and unique items, inextricably used to perform a common daily and critical task? Brushing our pearly whites is an almost involuntary habitat for some and a necessary but detested morning task for others. Both items the toothbrush and toothpaste are wedded but rarely come packaged together. Furthermore, they are always purchased on separate runs to the local grocery story or pharmacy. Without one you can't brush your teeth. What if we had a mildly abrasive, anti-bacterial dough, paste or gum, with a hint of fluoride that you chew for 5 minutes in the morning and in the evening or when ever you want? Why not one item instead of two? Could this solve the problem of not having toothpaste when you have the toothbrush or forgetting one of the two items on a weekend trip out of town?
"A good question beats a good answer"
To borrow a quote from Polly LaBarre's blog in the Harvard Business review by Alan Webber Co-Founder of Fast Company magazine "A good question beats a good answer". Further supporting the idea that questions and the thoughtful composure of a challenging question is an art form and can result in breakthroughs. Ms. LaBarre makes three solid points:
- "Questions are a powerful antidote to hubris". This is especially common in my profession as a consultant, we are expected and rewarded for having answers. There is a real vulnerability required in asking questions. We fear this vulnerability and the humility required to ask big questions but without big questions we stifle opportunities for creativity and innovation.
- "The best questions are the bedrock of all change and creativity". Like Josh stated in his presentation innovation and creativity comes from questioning.
- "Asking good questions trades control for contribution". Questions create uncharted pathways where the destination is unknown. Like an expedition through a new land if we had the answer we would never discover.
Change Your Words to Change the World
Finally, this video is about changing our perspective on how we see things and how we relay ideas or questions. The winner of the 2008 Cannes Festival best short story, Alonso Alvarez Barreda video "Historia De Un Letrero" (the English translation - The Story of a Sign) depicts...well just check it out. Josh shared a similar version but in English (Scottish - English) during his presentation.
