Budding/1 min read

MECE (Mutually Exclusive, Collectively Exhaustive) is a framework for breaking down complex problems into manageable components.

Components

  • Mutually Exclusive: No overlap between categories
  • Collectively Exhaustive: Covers all aspects of the problem

Usage

Used for breaking down complex problems into distinct, comprehensive categories. Particularly useful in strategy consulting and problem analysis.

Examples and Applications

  • Problem Structuring: Organize issues into clear categories
  • Strategic Analysis: Break down market segments or customer types
  • Decision Trees: Create comprehensive option sets
  • See also: 5 Whys, SWOT, Frameworks

Connected notes