Monday, June 28, 2010

On the Importance of Knowledge

The most solvable problems are those problems that are clearly understood by the people trying to solve them.

Solutions stem from a full understanding of the problem. Knowledge is key. Not merely knowledge of what the problem is either.

You need knowledge about how it became a problem. Is the economy suffering? Are customers becoming more health-conscious? Have you suffered from bad PR?

You need knowledge about what would be considered an acceptable resolution. An increase in sales? More twitter followers? More consumer trust?

You need knowledge about the people this problem affects. Are they risk-takers? Conservative? Desperate?

And you need knowledge about the people the solution will affect. Do they want convenience? Appreciate goodwill? Are they penny pinchers?

The next time you have a problem that needs solving, do your homework. Learn as much as you can about the situation. Ask questions. Turn to experts.

Knowledge is key. Without it, we'd have a whole bunch of problems and very few solutions.

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