The iceberg metaphor
What we see is only the tip of the iceberg
Visible results, symptoms and immediate indicators reveal only a fraction of reality. Two independent perspectives help explore root causes, hidden interactions, risks and real opportunities.
The visible problem is rarely the real problem.
Go deep. Understand the whole system. Surface smarter.
Executive Summary
Going deep into a strategic question requires the discipline of a safe dive: a clear objective, a trusted buddy, resource monitoring, validation stops and a controlled ascent toward a decision.
Before the dive
Clarify the question, define the useful depth, identify sources and agree on stop criteria.
During the analysis
Stay oriented toward the decision, monitor time and budget, challenge assumptions with a trusted peer and avoid endless collection.
Respect the stops
Pause to verify, compare and assimilate. Robust conclusions emerge from successive validation, not a rushed final sprint.
Surface safely
Separate facts, interpretations and recommendations. Communicate only verified findings and preserve capacity for new questions.
Between dives
Document learning, allow the organisation to absorb the data and avoid launching another deep analysis too quickly.
ADWaltiS checklist
- Is the decision question explicit?
- Are sources independent and traceable?
- Who challenges the interpretation?
- What resources and stop criteria are defined?
- Which conclusions are facts, hypotheses or recommendations?
- What must be validated before communication?