HS075: How to Ask Questions

In this episode of Heavy Strategy, Greg and Johna discuss the importance of asking the right questions in IT strategy, design, and consulting engagements. Johna introduces the "Five Whys" technique for root cause analysis, while Greg focuses on identifying "points of invariance" or immutable factors to establish a foundation for problem-solving. They explore how understanding business drivers and uncovering unknown assumptions are crucial for effective IT decision-making. The conversation also delves into the challenges of asking questions without causing personal offense and the need for emotional intelligence in navigating team dynamics. They emphasize the importance of after-action reports and the balance between addressing issues and considering people's feelings in the workplace.