Use this when
The situation fits this depth.
- A recurring or consequential problem that is difficult to name
- A live decision about people, workflow, technology, or structure
- A leader who needs a disciplined first read before committing more resources
Level 01
Problem First Read
Separate what is visible from what may be producing it.
A pre-read, focused 90-minute session, and written direction that identifies problem hypotheses, evidence gaps, and the responsible next decision without pretending one conversation is a full diagnosis.
Not for
This should not become a shortcut.
- A request for a guaranteed root cause
- Free scoping or validation for a decision already made
- A complete implementation plan from one session
Inputs and evidence
Depth begins with evidence, not terminology.
SE Ocean separates observation, evidence, hypothesis, interpretation, and recommendation throughout the work.
- What is happening now
- What has already been tried
- The decision under consideration
- Up to three relevant documents or workflow artifacts
Concrete outputs
What should exist when this scope ends.
Observable symptoms
Decision currently at risk
Preliminary system tensions
Problem hypotheses
Supporting and contradicting evidence
Unknowns and evidence gaps
What should not be concluded yet
Stop, self-handle, refer, or deepen recommendation
Boundaries
Uncertainty should be written down, not hidden.
- Not a full organizational diagnosis
- Not a root-cause claim
- Not an implementation plan
- Later work is separate and never automatic