<aside> 💡 Project File Example (for your records)

DIF Handout.pdf

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Dimensional Inquiry Framework

Overview

The Dimensional Inquiry Framework employs the six guiding questions of modern language—why, who, what, where, when, how—to establish strategic spaces for effective team operation. This triage of questioning phases navigates teams from problem inception to solution implementation, making it particularly suitable for complex challenges that require both overarching vision and attention to detail.

1. The "Why" Dimension: Strategic Alignment
   • Purpose: To establish the larger question that sets the direction for the team.
   • Philosophy: This describes the space you will operate in.
   • Actions:
     • Identify the core issue.
     • Formulate it as a "Why" question.
     • Discuss the impact of solving this issue on overall strategy.
2. The "Context" Dimension: (Who, What, Where, and When) Contextual Awareness
   • Purpose: To capture a comprehensive understanding of the current scenario, thereby establishing the conditions and constraints within which solutions can be developed.
   • Philosophy: This describes what you will build on and with.
   • Actions:
     • Answer the 'Who,' 'What,' 'Where,' and 'When' questions.
     • Some of these will be dependent or duplicate and branch out (i.e. different types of customers with different needs).
     • Utilize this information to create a multi-faceted understanding of the issue at hand.
3. The "How" Dimension: Operational Planning
   • Purpose: To move from contemplation to action by designing practical steps for resolution.
   • Philosophy: This is understood through present and needed talent abilities related to the above.
   • Actions:
     • Develop a plan by answering "How" questions.
     • Answers from the first two dimensions will structure and guide this phase.
     • Anything needed not listed in “Context” must be addressed and confirmed by the “Why”.

Application

• Use in team meetings, project planning, and strategic discussions.
• Use as a review tool to help with decision making.
• Aligns with various levels of organizational hierarchy, suitable for employees across all roles.

Key Advantages

• Enables a systematic approach to complex problem-solving.
• Facilitates alignment between team members, ensuring everyone is on the same page.
• Provides clarity and structure to discussions, reducing ambiguity.
• Adaptable to various scales of operation, making it versatile for different levels within an organization.