issue-tree

Overview

Based on "The McKinsey Way" by Ethan Rasiel and "Bulletproof Problem Solving" by Conn and McLean. An issue tree is the primary tool for structuring complex problems before jumping to solutions. The goal is to decompose the problem into its components until each branch is answerable by a single analysis or interview. Done well, it prevents the most common consulting failure: solving the wrong problem rigorously.

The MECE principle (Mutually Exclusive, Collectively Exhaustive) is the test for every level of the tree. No overlap between branches. No gaps in the full set.

Workflow

Step 1: Write the Problem Statement

Start with a precise problem statement. Vague problems produce vague trees.

A good problem statement:

• Names who has the problem (the client, a specific business unit, customers)
• States the gap between current state and desired state with data where possible
• Is scoped in time ("by end of Q4" or "over the next 3 years")
• Avoids pre-supposing the cause or solution