Observe. Research. Find the problem. Research, research, research. Analyze. Find a solution. Test it.

These are the straight forward, highly-summarized first steps to our “Flipd” process of solving a wicked problem. After going through the process with my group, I realized that breaking down to the basics of the process was the hardest part. During this process, I had difficulty not incorporating my own biases and problem ideas into the conversation. Thinking objectively while researching and holding interviews proved to be much more useful than leading with previous assumptions. Prior to hunting down the students of LCB, my teammates and I had already formed ideas and assumptions about the problem topics we were assigned. To our downfall, these assumptions led our interviews, research, and solution into many dead ends. Through the continuous cycle of “Flipd”, I realized how important it is to view and analyze every situation objectively. After we changed our approach to gathered information, we were able to find much more dynamic data.

Coupled with process of gathering information, is the process of filtering information. This operation is almost more complicated than the previous. To start, you must have a detailed  and clear understanding of your goal–what do you want the audience to take away? Then, after relentless hours of gathering and sorting data, you must decide which information is actually worth using. I find this process difficult, because I have a tendency to consider all data as “some-what” useful. To combat this issue, I have been revisiting my goals and objectives list frequently to make sure that I am still on track with my data research.

Think objectively. Don’t make your own assumptions. Understand the situation and the goals. –All ways to make the “flipd” process run more efficient & effective.