B2–C1 · FRM · XTHFRM004

If we define the problem as [X], we will optimise for [Y]

A reusable frame from “Problem framing and reframing”. Define the problem before solving it, expose hidden assumptions, and choose a more useful frame.

EN · EnglishIf we define the problem as [X], we will optimise for [Y].
DE · GermanWenn wir das Problem als [X] definieren, werden wir auf [Y] optimieren.

Try variations2 · more examples

  1. RU · Translation

    Если определить проблему как выпуск большего количества контента, мы начнём оптимизировать объём, а не полезность.

    EN · English

    If  we  define the problem as  producing more content,  we  will  optimise for volume rather than usefulness.

    DE · German

    Wenn  wir  das Problem als Produktion von mehr Inhalten  definieren,  werden  wir auf Menge statt auf Nutzen  optimieren.

  2. RU · Translation

    Если определить проблему только как скорость, мы начнём сокращать циклы, даже если объём переделок вырастет.

    EN · English

    If  we  define the problem as speed alone,  we  will  optimise for shorter cycles even when  rework  increases.

    DE · German

    Wenn  wir  das Problem nur als Geschwindigkeit  definieren,  werden  wir auf kürzere Zyklen  optimieren, selbst wenn  die Nacharbeit  zunimmt.

Reasoning move · Frame

Frame

What it does

Expose how a problem definition determines the metric or behaviour that will be optimised.

Pattern graph

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Related reasoning patterns4

Nearby structures let you perform the same reasoning move in a different form.

  1. A more useful way to frame [X] is as [Y], rather than [Z].Frame · same reasoning move · same study set
  2. Before we solve [X], we need to decide what counts as [Y].Frame · same reasoning move · same study set
  3. The constraint we should design around is [X], not [Y].Frame · same reasoning move · same study set
  4. The question changes once we distinguish [X] from [Y].Frame · same reasoning move · same study set

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