These are statements that must be erased from our vocabulary and thought processes. Developing multiple viable options is one of the strongest skills we can learn.
There are always options. Choosing one should be based on explicit criteria endorsed by the most important players and stakeholders. Often the criteria are set before analysis starts; however, it is legitimate to begin the exploration of ideas and factors without setting tight parameters. Then criteria can be set, and all options evaluated based on the criteria.
My favourite way of developing options is to ask to myself or others, “Really?” The conversation goes something like this.
“There’s only one option.”
“Really?”
“Well, we could _______. But that’s not realistic.”
“Really? Let’s write it down anyway. Why isn’t it realistic?”
“It would cost too much money/take too long/never be supported, ….”
“Really? Can we think of a cheaper/faster/more reasonable … way?”
“Yes, but….”
“Let’s write it down.”
Continuing this conversation with self or others will elicit all sorts of ideas that can be individually explored. Simultaneously exercising both creativity and discipline will result in a good set of reasonable options.
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