MECE - Grocery List

To master problem-solving using the MECE framework, you will need a handful of essential components.

I have leaned on the MECE framework countless times as a strategic consultant, and I've found it's the best way to organise my thoughts, arguments, and evidence to generate an optimal strategic pathway. When considering Power BI, MECE can apply in almost every process stage. From data preparation, dashboard design, visual selection, filtered and slicers, and report structure to project strategy, MECE helps you get organised.

So here is the Power BI MECE grocery list to help you get started.

Thing #1: A clear understanding of the MECE concept

You first need a solid grasp of the MECE framework, which stands for Mutually Exclusive and Collectively Exhaustive. This understanding will help you break down complex problems into manageable components without overlap.

To be successful, take the time to study the MECE concept outside of this article and practice applying it to various problems.

The idea is that all aspects of a problem are considered while none overlap and none are missed.

Step-by-step, here's how it looks:

1. First, identify the main idea, hypothesis, or problem you're trying to solve.
2. Put on your journalist hat and collect internal artefacts: Ensure they're both for and against the idea. Try to stay objective and don't let personal opinions creep in. Artefacts can come in many forms: emails, interviews, workshops, company intranet - think of this as evidence.
3. Create a table or tree diagram: Choose a visual representation that works best for your problem. For example, a table is suitable for organising categories with a limited number of subcategories, while a tree diagram is helpful for more complex issues with multiple levels of subcategories. You can use Excel or Google Sheets.
4. Add subcategories: Break down each main category into smaller, mutually exclusive subcategories that collectively cover all aspects of the parent category. Ensure that these subcategories also follow the MECE principle.
5. Loosley organise your artefacts: For each subcategory, plug in the relevant details from step 2. This step helps you keep track of your analysis and makes it easier to present your findings later.
6. Review and refine: Once you've organised all the MECE artifacts, review the table or tree diagram to ensure that it accurately represents the problem and follows the MECE principle. Then, if necessary, refine the structure by adding, removing, or adjusting categories and subcategories.

Are the Chinese dialects in the bottom right MECE?

Thing #2: A clear path for analysis

Next, analyse each category independently, focusing on understanding its relationship to the problem. This step may involve further breaking down the types into subcategories following the MECE framework. Again, look for patterns, trends, or insights that could inform potential solutions.

Continuing with the dialects example, you might further break down the languages into regional dialects.

Remember, the idea here is not to get into solution mode; it's simply a matter of mapping the elements in a logical manner that will support your analysis.

Here we ask, what are we missing? What's not needed? You would even start to get third-party eyes on your body of work to gauge opinion.

Thing #3: Become a fast follower

Once you've analysed each category and synthesised your findings to understand your direction comprehensively, it's time to introduce external artefacts.

Fast followers observe the successes and failures of first-mover companies (pioneers) and then quickly adapt and improve their strategies, products, or services. By learning from first-movers' experiences, fast followers can reduce risks, avoid costly mistakes, and capitalize on market opportunities with more informed decisions.

These artefacts can be journals, whitepapers, and data, further bolstering each point individually. Consider the relationships between the categories and subcategories, and identify critical insights that inform potential solutions from those who have done the work before you.

This step may even lead to introducing more ideas that were initially missed.

Thing #4: Patience and perseverance

Solving complex problems using the MECE framework requires patience and perseverance.

Often, you will encounter obstacles and challenges that demand resilience and adaptability. Usually, you'll spend time building your map only to change it the next day, but this is all part of the process.

With this Grocery List, you now have the essential components to start applying the MECE framework to your problem-solving endeavours. So take this list, learn more about each point, and make it your own.