Designing solutions to challenging the status quo – a multi-stakeholder approach

Purpose This paper aims to offer a detailed explanation of the five-step creating collective solutions (CCS) process and a contrast from the collective intelligence (CI) methodology. The CCS process described in this paper is set within the very wicked problem of improving water quality flowing into the World Heritage Listed Great Barrier Reef. Design/methodology/approach Leveraging the strengths of CI and co-design methodologies, CCS offers a streamlined five-step process that can be implemented in a short time period (16 weeks). Findings A total of 220 barriers were identified by stakeholders selected in the project working group meeting. Stakeholders participating in the CCS workshop identified 12 key barriers, and they generated an action map and solutions that could be applied to improve water quality. The CCS process was delivered in a shorter time frame when compared to the CI method that it drew upon. Research limitations/implications This study aimed to extend beyond CI by adding the seven-step co-design process to a shortened CI process. Method details are provided to permit researchers interested in extending CI methodologies beyond problem definition and understanding towards solution generation. Future research is needed to more directly compare and/or contrast the two models of research within the same context. Ideally, this research should be conducted using a field trial to permit a direct evaluation of the two approaches to be undertaken. Practical implications Application of the CCS process identified 12 key barriers and solutions that could be implemented to improve water quality. Stakeholders agreed that the installation of stormwater management structures was one approach that could be applied to prevent chemicals from flowing into waterways. Other issues included the need for improved communication and confidence to monitor and evaluate progress. CCS delivers clear guidance on approaches that need to be implemented in the short, mid and long term to address very wicked problems. Originality/value CCS delivers a guided process that can be implemented in a short time frame to identify solutions that can be implemented to address very wicked problems.