GPS: Context Interviews

This reflective and collaborative process is designed to help you gain a deeper understanding of the challenges you're facing, along with the different perspectives involved in solving them. By following a structured approach, you will systematically gather valuable insights that will guide both individual reflection and group decision-making.

Start by taking time to reflect on the problem at hand. You will be answering specific questions on your own, helping you clarify your thoughts and analyze the situation from your perspective. This solo reflection is critical, as it allows you to focus on your experiences and assumptions without outside influence. Be thorough as you move through the questions in the first two columns, exploring the nuances of the problem and your own ideas on how it can be addressed.

Next, it’s important to bring in the perspectives of others who are part of the problem-solving process. Select 2 to 4 people who can provide insights from different angles. This group should include both those you are solving the problem for and others who might present challenges or stand in your way. By ensuring diversity in your interviewees, you gain a more holistic view of the issue. Their input will help you understand various needs, expectations, and possible roadblocks.

During your interviews, ask the same set of questions that you answered during your solo reflection. This ensures consistency and allows you to directly compare your responses with those of others. Make sure to listen carefully to their answers, noting where their viewpoints align with yours and where they diverge. Each person’s feedback will add a new layer to your understanding.

Finally, after the interviews, revisit the third column of your framework. This is where you evaluate the areas of agreement and disagreement between your own thoughts and the perspectives you’ve gathered. Where do your solutions align with others’ expectations? Where do they differ? These points of consensus and conflict are essential for refining your problem-solving approach and identifying next steps.

By using this method, you create a more comprehensive understanding of the problem and gain the insights needed to find a well-rounded solution.