How can planners avoid the pitfall of narrowing their focus too soon?

Encouraging open-ended exploration of problems allows planners to maintain a broad perspective in the initial stages of planning. This approach promotes a comprehensive understanding of the issues at hand, encouraging diverse viewpoints and the identification of various factors that may contribute to the problem. By not rushing to conclusions or solutions, planners can consider multiple aspects and potential consequences of different strategies, which ultimately leads to more effective and informed decision-making.

In contrast, proposing solutions early in the process could lead planners to fixate on a specific approach without fully understanding the complexity of the problem. Adhering strictly to established protocols may constrain creativity and limit the ability to adapt to the unique details of the situation at hand. Limiting stakeholder input risks excluding valuable perspectives and insights that could enhance the planning process, further emphasizing the importance of an open-ended exploration approach.