The Secret Formula Innovators Use: Why-What If-How Explained

Behind every great invention lies a journey of questions. The Why-What If-How framework captures this journey in three transformative stages. First, Why challenges us to understand and frame the problem deeply, questioning assumptions and uncovering root causes.

Next, What If opens the floodgates of imagination, inviting us to explore possibilities without constraints. This stage encourages wild ideas, combinations, and rethinking of norms. Finally, How grounds creativity in reality, focusing on prototyping, testing, and refining solutions.

Consider the invention of instant photography. A simple question—why must developing photos take so long?—sparked a cascade of What Ifs and Hows that revolutionized how we capture memories. Similarly, the redesign of windshield wipers, inspired by the human eyelid’s blinking, followed this questioning path, leading to smoother, more effective designs.

This framework is not linear but iterative, with feedback loops that circle back to redefine Why or explore new What Ifs. It provides a roadmap for innovators, entrepreneurs, and anyone facing complex challenges.

By mastering this questioning sequence, you can transform problems into opportunities and ideas into impactful realities.

References: Inspired by 'A More Beautiful Question' and innovation case studies 1 , 4