7 skills every public problem solver needs

In these dark days, the world is full of profound and deepening problems. Some leaders realise the need to work differently to achieve their goals and impact the world.

Public problem-solvers possess a skill set that can be applied to any public problem for making measurable change. However, public problem solving is not yet a defined field. Some people use the term "social innovator" or "change agent."

• Problem definition: Defining and resolving an urgent problem that matters to people.
• Data-analytical thinking.
• Human-centred design: Abandoning closed-door practices of the past, and establishing a partnership with affected people.
• Collective intelligence: Adopting more participatory and democratic ways of working to build the collective intelligence of communities.
• Rapid evidence review: New technology is used to find the best ideas and people.
• Powerful partnerships: The know-how to build teams across multiple disciplines.
• Measuring what works: Using experimental techniques and collaboration.