Download the DDRSM Checklist for Digital Product Initiatives
Turning Complex Challenges into Actionable Solutions
The DDRSM methodology—Dream, Define, Recommend, Solve, Measure—is a structured, adaptable approach designed to drive clarity, alignment, and measurable success in problem-solving and decision-making. Rooted in data-driven insights, user-centered thinking, and business impact, DDRSM ensures that teams move beyond guesswork, tackling challenges with precision and purpose.
Why DDRSM?
In my work leading product, design, and strategy initiatives, I’ve seen firsthand how organizations struggle with ambiguous goals, misaligned teams, and solutions that miss the mark. DDRSM was born out of a need for a repeatable, scalable framework that fosters alignment, accelerates decision-making, and ensures solutions are not just ideas, but measurable outcomes that drive impact.
By applying DDRSM, I’ve helped organizations:
- Transform decision-making processes—moving from reactive to proactive, strategic thinking.
- Improve stakeholder alignment—ensuring teams work toward a common goal with shared understanding.
- Deliver measurable results—tying solutions to real business and user needs.
The Five Stages of the DDRSM Method
- Dream: Define the ideal outcome. What’s the vision? What’s the core problem to solve?
- Define: Identify constraints, key players, and success criteria. What does success look like?
- Recommend: Generate data-backed, viable solutions. What’s the best path forward?
- Solve: Execute, iterate, and refine. How do we turn strategy into action?
- Measure: YAssess success, optimize, and scale. Did we achieve the desired impact?
Real-World Application
DDRSM has been instrumental in guiding complex initiatives—from AI-driven user experiences to large-scale process transformations. Most recently, I applied this methodology in the development of the Employee Initiated Move (EIM) app, streamlining a previously cumbersome process into an efficient, transparent, and user-centered experience for employees, managers, and HR. By integrating DDRSM, the solution became not just a tool, but a catalyst for smarter decision-making, operational efficiency, and improved user experience.
The Bottom Line
Whether launching a new product, solving a critical business challenge, or driving innovation, DDRSM provides the structure to move from ambiguity to clarity, from ideas to impact. It’s more than a methodology—it’s a way to design better decisions and build solutions that matter.
Check out the articles I authored on this method as part of the Kick Ass Process (KAP) series.
Find the antidote to chaos and avoid headaches.
Kick Ass Process Part 1: Dream, Define, Recommend, Solve, Measure (DDRSM)
How Toyota Became So Successful by Implementing a Process
Kick Ass Process Part 2: A Tale of Process Success
I am here to help you kick ass with the DDRSM Method, so don’t hesitate to reach out. Got questions, feedback, or a success story of your own? I would love to hear from you! Whether you’re looking for advice on implementing the DDRSM Method, have insights to share, or just want to connect, I am all ears. Your input helps me keep improving.
Feel free to reach out and connect!
contact@luisbarriga.com
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http://linkedin.com/in/luis-barriga-ab11234