Recently, I came across an academic paper that dives into how teams solve complex problems. It argues that the key to better solutions often lies in transient diversity—which means keeping lots of different ideas in play for longer instead of rushing to one solution too quickly. While transient diversity is often promoted in science and academia, it’s equally valuable in business when you’re striving for more innovative, high-quality solutions.

When tackling complex problems—whether strategic or operational—it’s tempting to rush toward solutions. But moving too fast can stifle diverse ideas, often resulting in weaker outcomes. By slowing down, avoiding quick decisions, and encouraging more exploration, you open the door to better, more creative solutions.

What Is Transient Diversity?

Transient diversity is about maintaining a wide range of possible solutions while a group is working toward a final decision. Instead of everyone aligning too quickly, you actively create space for different ideas to exist.

This approach is particularly useful in situations where complex problems don’t have clear-cut answers. Whether you’re conducting workshops, running brainstorming sessions, or developing new products, keeping a diversity of perspectives alive can lead to more innovative outcomes.

 

How to Increase Transient Diversity in Your Workshops and Problem-Solving Sessions

Here are some ways to increase transient diversity in your workshops and problem-solving sessions:

Structure groups strategically
Create looser networks where subgroups interact less frequently, allowing a wider range of ideas to develop and persist.

Expand the search space
Encourage teams to explore a variety of possibilities by introducing approaches that foster diverse thinking styles.

Encourage idea persistence
Allow individuals to hold onto their initial ideas for longer, so potential solutions aren’t dismissed too soon.

Optimise communication dynamics
Adjust how team members share and interpret information to bring fresh perspectives and spark new ideas.

Delay consensus intentionally
Give teams extra time to explore different viewpoints before locking in decisions.

Now that we’ve explored the concept of transient diversity, let’s break down how you can apply this method in your workshops and team sessions

Actionable Steps for Facilitating Transient Diversity

1. Involve more people, but form subgroups

Larger teams can generate more ideas, but splitting them into smaller subgroups allows for deeper exploration of ideas. These subgroups can work independently, then regroup to exchange insights and cross-pollinate ideas.

Potential applications

Form smaller groups: Divide larger teams into smaller clusters based on expertise or shared interests to drive focused idea generation.
Facilitate periodic sharing: Bring the subgroups together to share and discuss ideas, then split them back up to avoid converging on solutions too soon.

2. Design different exploration pathways 

Mix up problem-solving frameworks and search strategies from the outset. Assign different approaches so participants can explore solutions from multiple angles.

Potential applications

Assign different frameworks: Give each group a different tool like SWOT, Fishbone, or First Principles so they approach the problem from various perspectives.
Mix up thinking styles: Assign different roles to team members, like having one person focus on bold risks while another optimises the current state. You can also try using the 6 Thinking Hats to encourage a variety of viewpoints.

3. Leverage Communication Points

How team members communicate is key to fostering diverse ideas. Mixing up communication methods can prevent the team from jumping to conclusions too quickly and encourage more perspectives to surface.

Potential applications

Limit sharing at first: Hold back some groups from fully sharing their ideas upfront. This allows different subgroups to develop unique insights independently before coming together. For example, ask them to share one key insight rather than their entire solution.
Use alternative communication approaches: Have team members explain their ideas through storytelling, images, or metaphors, encouraging creative thinking and diverse interpretations.

4. Slow Down the Rush to Consensus

Quick consensus often leads to mediocre solutions. Build in extra time for teams to explore alternatives and challenge their initial ideas.

Potential applications

Spend plenty time on exploration: Have ample time for solution exploration where teams have to consider multiple options before voting or agreeing.
Challenge: Introduce a rotating ‘devil’s advocate’ role to challenge early ideas and push the team to think more critically about their assumptions

Wrapping up

Embracing transient diversity isn’t just about finding better solutions—it’s about fostering a culture of innovation where creativity thrives and every idea gets its due consideration. Slowing down the decision-making process and encouraging a range of ideas to coexist for longer will push your team toward more thoughtful and effective solutions