Book Review: PROACTIVE Problem Solving by Doug Hall


Doug Hall’s PROACTIVE Problem Solving is an
energetic, insightful, and highly practical guide to transforming the way
individuals and organizations address challenges. Drawing from decades of
experience, including leading the innovative Brain Brew Bourbon Distillery,
Hall shows how to shift from a reactive mindset to one where everyone—leaders,
managers, and employees alike—actively identifies and fixes flawed work
systems. Along the way, readers are introduced to clear frameworks, creative
thinking tools, and inspiring case studies that demonstrate how these methods
lead to meaningful and lasting improvements.

The book is divided into three main parts:

  1. Defining
    Problems and Solutions
    – Understanding the “what” and “why”
    behind challenges to focus energy where it counts.
  2. Creating
    Solutions
    – Proven tools, creative thinking
    techniques, and systems to spark better ideas faster.
  3. Driving
    Out Risk
    – Methods for testing, refining, and
    implementing solutions with confidence.

Hall’s style is both conversational and deeply actionable,
blending stories from his work with Fortune 500 companies, small teams, and
entrepreneurial ventures. Concepts like “STOP THE STUPID” (eliminating broken
systems, not blaming people) and “Meaningfully Unique” (ensuring solutions are
impactful and different) are memorable and easy to apply. Real-world examples
and case studies—ranging from manufacturing floor improvements to creative
approaches in education—bring the lessons to life.

At just over 200 pages, the book is concise enough to be
read in a few focused sittings, yet rich with actionable content that rewards
re-reading. Most readers could comfortably finish it in a weekend, but its
depth and the included exercises make it equally valuable as a resource to
revisit over months of application.

This book will be especially valuable for business leaders,
managers, team members, educators, and entrepreneurs who want to cultivate a
culture of continuous improvement. It’s also ideal for anyone seeking to boost
problem-solving confidence, foster innovation, and increase engagement in their
organization. Hall’s emphasis on empowering people at all levels makes it
relevant across industries—from manufacturing to education, nonprofits to
startups.

Whether you’re running a global organization or simply
trying to make your daily work more effective and rewarding, PROACTIVE
Problem Solving
delivers both inspiration and an actionable toolkit. Hall’s
approach proves that solving problems isn’t just about fixing what’s
broken—it’s about creating a culture where innovation, engagement, and joy in
work thrive. I strongly recommend reading it, whether you want to improve your
personal problem-solving skills or ignite a transformation in your
organization.

Get your copy here:










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