E+E Consulting

Executive Problem-Solving Frameworks

7 proven decision-making frameworks for leaders under pressure

Which Framework Should You Use?
What's your primary need right now?

OODA Loop

John Boyd

Fast decisions in crisis. Observe → Orient → Decide → Act.
When: Competitive crises, market shifts, urgent situations.

DMAIC Framework

Six Sigma (Motorola)

Data-driven improvement: Define → Measure → Analyze → Improve → Control.
When: Process efficiencies, continuous improvement, data available.

Root Cause Analysis

Sakichi Toyoda (5 Whys)

Drill down 5 levels with "Why?" to get to true root cause.
When: Recurring failures, surface symptoms vs real cause.

Pre-Mortem Analysis

Gary Klein

Assume failure. List why. Prevent those failures now.
When: New initiatives, strategic launches, early risk uncovering.

First Principles Thinking

Aristotle / Elon Musk

Break into foundational truths. Rebuild from ground up.
When: Conventional approaches fail, innovation needed.

Six Thinking Hats

Edward de Bono

6 perspectives prevent groupthink. Parallel team thinking.
When: Team alignment, preventing groupthink, balanced decisions.

Decision Tree Analysis

J. Ross Quinlan

Map choices, probabilities, outcomes. Show expected value.
When: High-stakes decisions, multiple options, uncertainty.