The 3D technique

When to use:

• When you need to quickly focus on possible solutions
• To take responsibility for implementing the above solutions

Props:

• A4 sheet of paper
• Colored markers/highlighters
• Virtual whiteboard, if working remotely (e.g., Miro, Mural)

Instructions:

Problem definition

Ask the mentee to briefly define the problem—ideally in 1 to 2 sentences.

Obstacles

Ask them to look at the problem in three dimensions, in terms of the obstacles standing in the way of solving the problem.

• Situation – e.g.: lack of resources, insufficient resources, timeframe
• People involved – e.g.: an overly demanding boss, a dissatisfied customer, an irresponsible supplier, an irresponsible coworker.
• You (i.e., the person you work with - the mentee) - e.g.: insufficient skills, lack of knowledge in a given area, poor attitude, conflicting priorities

Priority Options

From the problems/obstacles listed in each dimension, ask the mentee to choose one priority option in each dimension, which provides support/solution - to be implemented.

• Note what the mentee can and cannot influence.
• Encourage the mentee to consider what is most likely to help solve the given problem.

Example:

• Situation – Extending the implementation time,
• People involved – identification of the main problems in the team that contribute to the lack of cooperation
• You (i.e., the person you work with - the mentee) – better task prioritization

Actions

Ask the mentee to define specific actions resulting from the options generated in step 3. It is worth specifying the deadline for the action(s).

Example:

• People involved – I will ask the HR department to prepare a work plan with me for me and the team to improve team collaboration in this and subsequent projects.

Own work based on: "Coaching and Mentoring: Practical Techniques for Developing Learning and Performance" Eric Parsloe, Leedham Melville, Newell Diane