Which technique involves listing various characteristics of a problem to find improvements?

The technique that focuses on listing various characteristics of a problem to identify potential improvements is known as attribute listing. This method encourages the individual or group to break down the problem into its basic components by identifying specific attributes or features. By doing so, it becomes easier to analyze each characteristic's strengths and weaknesses and consider how different attributes can contribute to generating solutions.

Attribute listing is particularly valuable in creative problem solving as it allows for a thorough examination of all aspects of a problem, leading to enhanced understanding and more innovative solutions. This technique can help unveil overlooked possibilities and aspects of a situation, stimulating creative thinking and facilitating focused discussions.

In contrast, other methods like force-field analysis emphasize understanding the forces that drive or impede change, scenario writing concentrates on envisioning future possibilities based on current decisions, and the onion model is used to peel back layers of complexity in a problem. Each of these approaches serves distinct purposes in problem-solving but does not specifically involve the characteristic listing that is central to attribute listing.