1
Everyone is a problem solver.
This isn't just a special gift for designers, engineers, or executives—it's a fundamental human capacity that can be developed and applied by anyone. We are all created with the ability to improve the world around us.
About Three Pipe Problems
My mission, methodology and story behind my approach to solving complex problems.
My mission: equipping problem solvers to drive change
The world faces challenges of increasing complexity—from the global to the deeply personal. My conviction is simple: everyone has the capacity and responsibility to solve problems that impact their world.
Three Pipe Problems began as a book about design as a problem-solving discipline. Now, in its second edition, it has evolved into a comprehensive approach to problem-solving that incorporates empathy, adaptability, critical thinking, and leadership—accessible to anyone seeking to make a difference.
My mission is to equip you with the mindset, tools, and courage to address meaningful challenges—whether you're leading a nonprofit, designing products, running a business, or driving change in any field.
Design for the Other Side of the Screen isn't just a mantra—it's a fundamental philosophy that reminds us to look beyond our own perspective and deeply consider the human beings who will be affected by our work.
About Jason VanLue
-
Jason is a seasoned product leader, designer, and problem solver with over 20 years of experience transforming organizations through design and technology. As VP of Product at Virtuous, he guides the development of responsive CRM and fundraising platforms that help nonprofits reimagine generosity and expand their impact. His approach combines strategic thinking with practical execution, always focused on addressing real human needs.
-
Three Pipe Problems distills insights from Jason's work with organizations like Google, Cisco, UCF, and Arnold Palmer Hospital into an actionable framework for anyone committed to solving meaningful problems. The book reflects his belief that the most significant challenges require both careful contemplation and purposeful action.
-
Jason's methodology has helped organizations across sectors identify their most pressing challenges, develop innovative solutions, and implement them with precision—proving that thoughtful problem-solving is the catalyst for lasting change.
"It is quite a three pipe problem, and I beg that you won't speak to me for fifty minutes."
— Sherlock Holmes
The Three Pipe Problems Journey
When Holmes faced his most vexing cases, he recognized that complex challenges required time, reflection, and systematic thinking. He would smoke three pipes while contemplating problems that couldn't be solved with quick answers or surface-level analysis.
Our world today is filled with three pipe problems—challenges that demand deep thought, careful consideration, and a willingness to look beyond the obvious. Yet we live in a culture that increasingly values speed over depth, quick fixes over lasting solutions, and an apathy towards taking any action at all.
The concept of Three Pipe Problems is both a recognition of this tension and a call to embrace a different approach—one that values critical thinking and decisive action. The first edition focused primarily on design as a problem-solving discipline. This expanded second edition brings in broader principles applicable to anyone seeking to create meaningful impact, reflecting the lessons learned from working with dozens of organizations across various sectors.
Read the introductionMy Problem-Solving Philosophy
At the heart of my approach to problem-solving are several foundational convictions:
2
Empathy is essential.
Understanding the human experience forms the foundation of effective problem-solving. Without empathy, solutions fail to address real needs. Design for the other side of the screen—for the actual people your work will impact.
3
Small changes create ripples.
The most significant transformations often begin with someone noticing and addressing a simple, everyday problem with intention and care. Don't underestimate the impact of solving small problems.
4
Design is more than decoration.
Thoughtful, intentional design is a systematic approach to challenges of all kinds, not just visual or product design. It's about purpose, function, and impact working in harmony.
5
Adaptability creates resilience.
The ability to adapt while maintaining core values is crucial in our rapidly changing world. And the courage to continue, especially when it’s hard, is the only way to spark change.
6
Impact matters more than intent.
Good intentions aren't enough; effective problem-solving focuses on creating meaningful, measurable outcomes that genuinely improve lives.