Drill Down

Break your problem down into progressively smaller parts.

To create a hierarchical chart:

Step 1:  Use Sorting to arrange your Factors into groups.

Step 2:  Next, create a hierarchical chart of your factors.

Step 3:  Write down a factor; then write down the factors that make up the next level of detail.

Step 4:  For each factor, repeat the process.

Step 5:  Keep on drilling down until you can’t break them down any further (use the Appreciation tool).

Step 6:  Connect the hierarchical structures together into a cohesive whole.

This tool will help you highlight exactly where further research is needed.

Here's an example of a hierarchical chart: