In life, as well as business, people can experience two distinct types of problems; solvable problems and unsolvable problems. Solvable problems, also known as "either/or" problems, are those problems with one definite right answer. For example, "What is 2+2?" Unsolvable problems, also known as polarities or "both/and" problems, have two or more right answers with the answers being interdependent. For example, think about the process of breathing. The process of inhaling and exhaling are actually opposing actions, however both actions are needed in order to achieve a greater purpose, living. If one of the actions is overdone and one is neglected, we would die. There is no doing one OR the other. Both actions must be done to achieve the desired result, staying alive.
Polarity management is rarely discussed or taught in formal education. Problems presented in formal education must be solved by arriving at one right answer by using an either/or approach to problem solving. This approach becomes an automatic way of thinking when approaching problem solving from then on. However when using this either/or approach to solve polarities, it can make the problem worse. According to a study done by Dr. Barry Johnson "there is a significant competitive advantage for those leaders, teams, or organizations that can distinguish between a problem to solve and a polarity to manage and are effective with both" (Johnson Ph. D., 1998). This competitive advantage is why making polarity management a priority in business can prove to be essential in business success. To assist in the process of managing polarities, a six step approach has been developed. The 6-Step Process is as follows;
1. Define the Issue
2. Identify key stakeholders
3. Build a polarity map
4. Understand how polarities work
5. Assess how well this polarity is working
6. Develop a plan and early warnings to manage this polarity (Irvin, 2008)