Redefining a problem — metaphors and associations

The method redefines a problem.

The redefinitions rest on metaphors — attempts to paraphrase the problem — and on associations, analogies with other cases and other events.

When to use it

1. When you are not sure the problem has been defined the right way.
2. When you solved the problem with 5 Why or the Ishikawa diagram but the solution has not produced anything.

When not to use it

1. When you still do not understand what exactly happened; see 5W+H.
2. When you are sure of the definition of the problem.