Conflict Evaporating Cloud
A classic TOC thinking tool designed to resolve dilemmas, break compromises, and find win-win breakthroughs (Injections).
π― What Problem It Solves
When teams face a dilemma (e.g., lower price for market share vs. keep price for margin), they often compromise. The Evaporating Cloud clarifies the needs of both sides to eliminate the deadlock.
π§ Thinking Logic & Core Concepts
A conflict is between two opposing actions (D and D'). However, each action serves a legitimate need (B and C) which in turn serves a common objective (A). By identifying and challenging the hidden assumptions between the needs and actions, we find a breakthrough (Injection) that satisfies both needs without compromise.
π Newbie Step-by-Step Guide
- Common Objective: State the objective both sides agree on.
- Identify Needs: Define the needs that each action tries to satisfy.
- Identify Actions: State the two conflicting actions.
- Challenge Assumptions: Click on the connection lines and list the underlying assumptions. Are they always true?
- Introduce Injection: Create a new solution that breaks the assumptions and satisfies both needs.
π‘ Classic Example
[Pricing Conflict Case]
- Common Objective (A): Ensure company growth and market position.
- Need (B): Increase sales volume.
- Need (C): Protect profit margin.
- Action (D): Lower the product price.
- Action (D'): Keep the product price.
- Injection: Offer a premium tier to protect margins while launching a basic tier to drive volume, satisfying both needs.