Business Studies Grade 10 | Problem-solving techniques | Chair Technique

Chair Technique
The chair technique is a simple but powerful method businesses use to help teams or individuals carefully weigh up the pros and cons of an idea, option, or decision. By structuring the process physically—using two separate chairs—it makes people consciously step into different perspectives rather than mixing thoughts together in their heads. This method helps prevent one-sided thinking and ensures both positive and negative aspects of an idea are openly considered. It’s especially useful for decisions where there isn’t an obvious answer or when emotions or personal bias might cloud judgment.

Application of a chair technique

Consider the Problem or Idea
The process begins by clearly stating what problem, decision, or idea needs to be examined. For example, a team might ask: “Should we switch to a new local supplier to reduce costs?” Taking a moment to define the issue ensures everyone is focused on the same question. This shared understanding sets the stage for honest, balanced discussion, as everyone knows exactly what they are about to evaluate from both sides.

Sit in the First Chair to List Pros
Team members then take turns sitting in the first chair, which symbolises looking at the idea only from a positive perspective. While in this chair, each person names as many benefits or advantages of the idea as possible. For example, switching to a new supplier might reduce costs, shorten delivery times, or build local partnerships. The physical act of sitting in this chair helps people mentally commit to finding positive points, even if they personally have doubts.

Move to the Second Chair to List Cons
After everyone has shared the positives, they move to the second chair to focus only on drawbacks or negative consequences. This might include risks like quality concerns, potential delays during supplier transition, or harming long-term relationships with the current supplier. Again, the rule is to look only at negatives while in this chair, ensuring the discussion fairly explores both sides rather than blending pros and cons at once.

Record All Points with a Scribe
While the discussion takes place, one person acts as a scribe, writing down every point raised—both positive and negative—on separate lists. This creates a visible record that the whole team can see and discuss. Having the lists written down helps prevent important points from being forgotten, and also keeps the discussion factual and transparent rather than just based on memory or opinion.

Discuss and Weigh Pros vs. Cons
With the two lists complete, the team comes together to compare them directly. They might ask: “Are the benefits strong enough to outweigh the risks?” or “Can any of the cons be reduced or managed?” This weighing process is where the team applies judgment and context—considering factors like business goals, resources, and timing—to decide which side carries more weight.

Make the Final Decision
Finally, after the discussion, the team makes an informed decision based on what they discovered. By formally listing and weighing both sides, the chair technique helps avoid rushed or emotionally driven choices. Instead, the team reaches a balanced, thoughtful conclusion—such as deciding to test the new supplier for three months before a full switch. The result is a decision that feels fair, clear, and backed by structured reasoning rather than guesswork.

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