Skip to content
Skip to the tool
← All tools

Assumption Busting

Problem solvingProblem definition

Reference model

Assumption Busting ProcessA cycle of 4 steps that repeats: 1, Identify Assumptions; 2, Challenge Assumptions; 3, Explore Alternatives; 4, Test Alternatives; after the last step the cycle returns to the first.Identify AssumptionsList the assumptions thatare influencing y…1Challenge AssumptionsQuestion the validity ofeach assumption.2Explore AlternativesGenerate new ideas based onthe insights ga…3Test AlternativesEvaluate the feasibility ofthe new ideas.4

Assumption Busting helps teams break free from limiting beliefs.

About this model

A structured approach to questioning and testing the validity of assumptions that shape problem-solving efforts.

Originator not stated.

How to read it

  • Identify assumptions that may not be true.
  • Challenge these assumptions to explore new perspectives.

What this does

Identifies and challenges the assumptions underlying a problem to uncover new insights and solutions.

When to use it

Use it when a team is stuck on a problem and needs to rethink the underlying beliefs that limit their options.

Not when: Do not use it when the problem is well-defined and the assumptions are already validated or irrelevant.

What happens next

Conduct a brainstorming session to generate alternative solutions based on the insights gained.

Golden thread

Builds on ←

  • Problem statement
  • Stakeholder analysis

Feeds into →

  • Action plan

Use this tool, free

Sign in to open the worksheet. Your work saves as you type, the AI can draft the parts you have not filled in, and you finish with an analysis and a 30/60/90-day action plan.

Drafted with AI and reviewed by Eccellere on 04/11/2026. Guidance, not advice: apply your own judgement.