How do you get buy-in for creative problem solving solutions?

3 Address the risks

Another key factor that influences buy-in is the perceived risk of your CPS solution. Your audience might be reluctant to support your solution if they think it is too risky, uncertain, complex, or costly. To address these fears, you need to acknowledge the potential challenges, drawbacks, or trade-offs of your solution and show how you plan to mitigate or overcome them. Use data, evidence, or logic to back up your arguments and show the feasibility and viability of your solution. Anticipate and answer the possible questions or objections that your audience might have.

4 Involve your stakeholders

A good way to build trust and rapport with your audience is to involve them in the CPS process and make them feel part of the solution. You can do this by asking for their feedback, input, or suggestions throughout the process, especially in the early stages of defining the problem and generating ideas. You can also invite them to test, prototype, or co-create your solution and incorporate their opinions and preferences. By involving your stakeholders, you can show that you value their perspectives, address their needs, and create a sense of ownership and commitment.

5 Seek support and allies

Getting buy-in for your CPS solution is not a solo effort. You can leverage the support and influence of other people who can help you persuade your audience and champion your solution. These could be experts, mentors, peers, or advocates who have credibility, authority, or rapport with your audience. You can ask them to endorse, recommend, or promote your solution, or to join you in presenting or implementing it. You can also use social proof, such as testimonials, reviews, or ratings, to show that your solution has been validated or approved by others.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?