Is Schein’s Approach to Consulting a Form of “Brainstorming"?

Brainstorming as Consulting?

I can see where it might seem like Schein is describing a brainstorming exercise as he talks about his consulting strategy. His strategy and brainstorming share some commonalities, not least of which is that both require a trusting relationship in order to succeed. Schein describes in depth how after forming this trust with a client, it is his job to help the client define and sort out the "messy problems" that they might have. He states that after some inquiry in the situation, often the true reason or problem emerges and it is then that new solutions might emerge (Schein, 2016). This is close to one of the fundamental reasons that we brainstorm - to "open up possibilities and break down incorrect assumptions." (Mind Tools, n.d.) However, there is a definite difference between the two approaches. 

During brainstorming we throw out any an all possibilities - no matter how crazy. Possible solutions can come from anywhere and we take no time to critique the suggestions. Everything is valid. In Schein's approach, while new ideas may surface to the top to be addressed after initial analysis of the situation, the solutions to those problems are well thought out and realistic for the client to attain. In fact, it seems as thought brainstorming may be a tool that he would use to get to the solutions but his consulting technique is not a form of brainstorming.

I liken Schein's technique to more of an exercise in critical thinking. In fact, it seems to follow Mintzberg's emergent strategy closely. Schein even states that his consulting style is more like an improve than a scripted play (Schein, 2016). Problems surface and adaptive moves are put into place to address the problem and ultimately get to the main goal that has been uncovered at the beginning of the process. 

References:

Schein, E. H. (2016). Humble consulting: How to provide real help faster. Berrett-Koehler
Publishers

 Mind Tools. (n.d.). Brainstorming. Generating many radical, creative ideas. Retrieved

      from https://www.mindtools.com/brainstm.html

Comments

  1. AnonymousJune 20, 2019 at 9:04 PM

    Great discussion earlier this week. Only/main content related comment here would be around how brainstorming/critical thinking a la Schein could iteratively interact. We start with open and non-judgmental brainstorming, we proceed through to Schein-like reflection, or something similarly safe and open, but more structured. This might conform well with our discussion of strategy; we build a plan, but nothing too perfect, and we move out and tinker as we go.

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