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Rating: 
Summary: Common tools used in uncommon ways
Review: As an IT Consultant I am always looking for different methods to solve problems. I found this book to be simple but yet valuable. When I first started reading this book it took me back to a book called "Visualizing Project Management" where the authors Forsberg, Mooz and Cotterman use the process of "Cards on the Wall" technique to encourage group thinking and visually determine dependencies. This book introduces an effective way to solve problems with Post-it® Note. It starts off by showing simple key principles: (1) Chunking; capturing small information of data, (2) Problem Patterns, arranging and determining relationships, (3) Guiding decisions and keeping clear objectives, and (4) the *FOG* factor (Facts, Opinions, Guesses). The core of the book provides 6 easy to use methods: (1) Post up, (2) Swap sort, (3) Top-down Tree, (4) Bottom-up Tree, (5) Information map and (6) Action Map. Note that "Information map" has nothing to do with Information Mapping®, which is both a registered trademark and different method owned by Information Mapping, Inc. These methods are represented graphically with many examples to help you determine which method is best suited to find the solution for complex problems. What I found most helpful in this book was the step-by-step procedures in every chapter. Every method has a clear definition of what it is and how and when it should be used. Grasping these methods will paint a clear picture towards the direction of a solution. I recommend this book to those that are looking for an effective, yet simple, way of solving problems.
Rating:
Summary: Common tools used in uncommon ways
Review: As an IT Consultant I am always looking for different methods to solve problems. I found this book to be simple but yet valuable. When I first started reading this book it took me back to a book called "Visualizing Project Management" where the authors Forsberg, Mooz and Cotterman use the process of "Cards on the Wall" technique to encourage group thinking and visually determine dependencies. This book introduces an effective way to solve problems with Post-it® Note. It starts off by showing simple key principles: (1) Chunking; capturing small information of data, (2) Problem Patterns, arranging and determining relationships, (3) Guiding decisions and keeping clear objectives, and (4) the *FOG* factor (Facts, Opinions, Guesses). The core of the book provides 6 easy to use methods: (1) Post up, (2) Swap sort, (3) Top-down Tree, (4) Bottom-up Tree, (5) Information map and (6) Action Map. Note that "Information map" has nothing to do with Information Mapping®, which is both a registered trademark and different method owned by Information Mapping, Inc. These methods are represented graphically with many examples to help you determine which method is best suited to find the solution for complex problems. What I found most helpful in this book was the step-by-step procedures in every chapter. Every method has a clear definition of what it is and how and when it should be used. Grasping these methods will paint a clear picture towards the direction of a solution. I recommend this book to those that are looking for an effective, yet simple, way of solving problems.
Rating: 
Summary: Outlines simple processes for effective meetings
Review: David Straker shows six simple problem-solving processes for use in groups. He uses the Post-it(R) Note at the center of his processes to allow quick posting of ideas and thoughts, rearrangement, prioritization and mapping. The book is a quick read and gives you step-by-step instructions about using each process in a meeting. Its illustrations, while simple, are concise and informative.
Rating: 
Summary: An easy, fun way to rapidly solve those knotty problems!
Review: Do you ever come across problems which seem to be a morass
of issues, disagreement and disconnected pieces of information? Do you go around in circles for hours or days, arguing and trying to make sense of it all? If so, this
book is for you! It describes a set of six
tools that are quick and easy to learn and use, either by yourself or in a group. Post-it(R) Notes are used
to capture and structure the knottiest of problems, allowing
you to get to the heart of your problem rapidly and easily.
Descriptions are clear and practical, with many diagrams and examples.
Rating:
Summary: A wonderful introduction to systems thinking
Review: This book is a real wonder. In a very friendly way, and without resorting to any technology beyond sticky notes, it introduces several concepts of computer science and systems engineering. It can be used as a brainstorming tool, but it can also be used by us programmers as a gift to the non-programmers in our lives. It can serve as an exposition of what it is we do all day when we aren't cursing irritating APIs and OS misfeatures. This is about the part of our jobs that we love and that we have so much trouble explaining. I'm delighted it's still in print. I love oddball books in general, and this is a great example. It really delivers much more than it claims to. Don't hesitate for a minute to buy this one.
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mt
Rating:
Summary: Practical, easy to use book
Review: This book provides six easy to use methods for facilitating decision making and getting everyone involved in working through solutions. I keep this book in my briefcase for use at any time - don't let the name of the book fool you, it's about quick methods for problem solving using Post It Notes to help you. I keep referring back to the book time and again. I highly recommend it.
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