What must be avoided to prevent narrowing the focus prematurely during the planning phase?

During the planning phase, it is essential to maintain a broad perspective to ensure that all potential avenues and factors are considered before selecting a course of action. Implicit solutions in problem statements can lead to premature narrowing of focus because they may imply a specific direction or solution rather than allowing for an open exploration of ideas. This creates a risk of missing alternative approaches or innovative solutions, as the planning team may unconsciously limit their thinking to the implied solutions rather than engaging in a comprehensive analysis of the problem.

By explicitly defining the problem without suggesting solutions, the planning team can foster a more robust brainstorming process that encourages diverse perspectives and ideas. This approach ensures that all stakeholders can contribute their insights, leading to a more thorough understanding of the issues at hand and ultimately a more effective plan. Hence, avoiding implicit solutions in problem statements is crucial for enabling a holistic planning approach.