When problems are identified, solutions that immediately correct the undesired situation are implemented.
However, is the root cause addressed? Is the condition that triggered the undesired events in the first place avoidable, and can it be eliminated?
Some of the problems observed today in several regions are the existence of poverty and economic stagnation extending over a long period. Why are poverty and social exclusion, which can lead to social instability, still in existence today even in advanced economies? Why has economic stagnation not been resolved for decades in some areas? In searching for the root cause of every case, we repeatedly look for the primary reason that caused each event until a further trigger cannot be found.
The solution to the root cause may require capabilities extending beyond those available by any singular individual or group. Creating the remedy may necessitate cooperation by a number of groups with different capabilities, and installing the solution may require yet another group of talents.
Immediate resolutions of undesired situations tend to be short-term projects, and eliminations of root causes tend to be long-term projects requiring commitment over extended periods. With the focus of businesses centered on short-term revenue and shareholder dividend, long-term commitment on projects traversing corporate boundaries is difficult.
A collaboration framework to address problems for mutual benefit is in demand. In this cooperation structure, entities and groups will cooperate beyond organizational boundaries, will share responsibilities to generate output, and will cut through bureaucratic restrictions and self-centered thinking to analyze problems and to identify root causes. The key point is the responsibility sharing to create the output. The concept is useful as a vehicle to overcome major obstacles in the short-term in a reasonably efficient manner.
The manufacturing sector has been successful in decreasing cost, enhancing quality, and improving revenue by adopting visualization of the problems and fact-based analysis. A similar approach can be utilized under the cooperative framework to effectively handle problems demanding cross-boundary competence.
