HarvardXLEAD1x-V007400_DTH

Understanding Technical Problems

• Definition of Technical Problems: Problems that are within our capacity to solve, differing from their importance or complexity.

• Evolution of Expertise:

  • Expertise has developed over time; many problems viewed as complex today were once considered adaptive challenges.

  • Example: Surgeons perform intricate heart surgeries today that were once deemed impossible.

Technical vs. Adaptive Challenges

• Technical Problems:

  • Ready to be solved; solutions exist or can be found within a community.

  • May require collaboration with others who have the necessary expertise and knowledge.

• Adaptive Challenges:

  • Gaps that necessitate the development of new skills and solutions.

  • Require innovative approaches and changes in behavior or understanding.

Role of Leadership and Expertise

• Leadership in Technical Problems:

  • In scenarios with clear technical solutions, the role of leadership changes.

  • We often rely on community members with the right expertise rather than looking for traditional leadership.

• Expert Capacity:

  • Seeking expertise means asking individuals to perform their roles, not leading in the traditional sense.

  • In these instances, individuals execute their jobs using their authority and managerial skills rather than engaging in leadership tasks.