Step 2 - Create Structural Tension by Defining Current Reality
Good Structural Tension automatically generates the path of least resistance.
Jack Harich:
"The "tension" introduced by current versus future reality is powerful. It commits to writing what we intuitively consider as we struggle to build a plan to achieve a goal. We are no longer solving the "How to get to point B" problem. Instead we are solving the "How to get from point A to B" problem. This is similar to gap analysis.
Current Reality is those elements affecting reaching the goal or needing change in relation to achieving the goal. Describing this correctly is just like defining a problem fully. As we all know, clearly defining a problem is often over half the battle. Why? Because the more clarity and relevant input data we have, the easier the solution. In the case of current versus future reality, the clearer the differences are, the clearer how to bridge the differences is. Bridging the difference essentially follows "the path of least resistence", as this diagram shows. The curves are detours around problems or rejected paths.
In fact, if one spends sufficient time defining the Current Reality and Goal super clear, a lighting bolt can strike. The planner(s) can see the best solution path in a sudden flash of insight. This is creativity in action."