Best Doable Option (BDO) Exercise
Find the best doable option
The Best Doable Option (BDO) Exercise is a framework for finding the best doable option. It involves brainstorming alternative solutions, evaluating options, and choosing the best doable one.
- The best doable option is often good enough
- Reframing can help us find alternative solutions
- Brainstorming can help us generate new ideas
- Pick a problemChoose a problem you want to work on and write it down clearly.Pro tipUse radical honesty to examine your own biases.WarningBe careful not to get stuck on a single solution.
- Brainstorm alternative solutionsGenerate a list of possible solutions to the problem.Pro tipUse a friend or colleague to help you brainstorm.WarningAvoid getting stuck on a single solution.
- Evaluate optionsEvaluate the options you've generated and sort them into BTO and BDO categories.Pro tipFocus on the BDOs and eliminate the BTOs.WarningDon't get too attached to a single solution.
- Pick a BDO and execute itChoose a BDO and execute it. Remember that the goal is to find a good enough solution, not a perfect one.Pro tipHave a bias to action and take the first step.WarningDon't overthink it – just take action.
The job search example
A person is looking for a new job and uses the BDO Exercise to find the best doable option. They brainstorm alternative solutions, evaluate options, and choose the best doable one.
OutcomeThe person finds a new job that meets their needs.
The career change example
A person wants to change careers and uses the BDO Exercise to find the best doable option. They brainstorm alternative solutions, evaluate options, and choose the best doable one.
OutcomeThe person finds a new career that meets their needs.
Not reframing the problem
Failing to reframe the problem can lead to missing out on alternative solutions.
Not brainstorming alternative solutions
Failing to generate alternative solutions can lead to missing out on potential solutions.
Not evaluating options
Failing to evaluate options can lead to choosing a suboptimal solution.
The concept of the BDO Exercise was introduced by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans in their book 'Designing Your Work Life'.
Source · BOOK
Designing Your Work Life