Problem Swap

Solve each other's problems for fresh perspective.

Participants think of a current problem they are experiencing in their work. They then pair with another participant and swap problems. How would each solve the other’s problem?

Type

Exercise

Time

30 minutes

Group size

4-12 people

Best as

Paired exercise

In depth

A little more detail.

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Research shows that swapping problems is a highly productive method of discovering new insights and solutions.

Firstly, there's the benefit of talking to someone else about your problems - your brain and body get a lot out of talking.

Secondly, your problem might be easily solved by someone else just because of their “psychological distance” from it.

In running this activity, we have participants think of a current problem they are experiencing in their work. They then pair with another participant and swap problems.

How would each solve the other’s problem?

Outcomes

What you'll leave with.

Illustration of two people with orange backpacks viewed from behind, looking sideways and smiling.

When to use it

Use Problem Swap to unlock fresh insight on stubborn problems. People pair up and swap a current work problem, then solve each other's, which brings the value of talking it through and the psychological distance of an outside view.

Illustration of a woman with orange hair holding a tablet and giving a thumbs up.

Use it when

People are stuck on problems they are too close to.
A team would benefit from outside perspectives on individual challenges.
You want a simple, energising way to generate solutions.

Not the right tool when

The whole group needs to work one shared problem. Use Solved!
You want to generate many ideas on one topic. Use Alternate Uses.

Used in

Workshops that feature this tool.

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Use it with your team

This tool works best in a well-facilitated room.

Using this tool with a skilled facilitator means that discussions are focused, time is used efficiently, and the group moves toward consensus, making the session productive and impactful.

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