technical versus adaptive challenges

Technical challenges are issues that can be solved using existing knowledge, expertise, and procedures. They typically have clear solutions and can be addressed by individuals or teams with the right skills. In contrast, adaptive challenges involve complex problems that require changes in attitudes, behaviors, or values across a group. These challenges often lack straightforward solutions and need collaboration, learning, and emotional resilience from those involved. In essence, technical challenges are about “how” we solve a problem, while adaptive challenges focus on “what” we need to change to address the issue effectively.