Is/is not problem-solving technique

The Is/Is Not technique defines a problem by contrasting where it appears with comparable places, times or conditions where it could appear but does not. The contrast narrows scope and generates testable distinctions instead of letting assumptions expand unchecked. Charles Kepner and Benjamin Tregoe incorporated this logic into their systematic problem-analysis work after establishing their consultancy in 1958.

When to use it

• Use it when a problem is vague, intermittent or surrounded by distracting information.
• Apply it before proposing causes, particularly when similar products, locations or periods do not show the failure.
• Use the matrix with a team to separate observed facts from inference.

Origins

Kepner and Tregoe developed their rational problem-analysis methods after founding a New Jersey consultancy in 1958. Their approach compared a deviation with closely related non-deviations to identify meaningful differences and changes. The simplified Is/Is Not matrix preserves that core diagnostic discipline.

What it is

For each dimension, record verified observations in two columns:

What:

object, defect or outcome affected—and comparable objects not affected.

Where:

geographic or physical location—and where it does not occur.

When:

first occurrence, recurrence and pattern—and comparable times without it.

Extent:

size, frequency or trend—and the plausible extent not observed.

A good “is not” is a close comparison, not an unrelated absence. The difference between the two conditions becomes a clue, not proof of cause.

How to use it

Write one neutral problem statement, then create the first template:

Is/is not template 1