The SCR framework is a powerful communication and storytelling tool used to structure information and arguments in a logical, persuasive, and easy-to-follow narrative. It is famously used by consulting firms like McKinsey & Company to present complex business problems and solutions clearly and concisely.

SCR stands for:

Situation

Complication

Resolution

Here’s a breakdown of each component:

1. S - Situation

This is the opening of your narrative. The goal is to establish the context and provide a stable, non-controversial background for your audience. It should be a statement of fact that everyone can agree on.

Purpose: To set the stage and establish common ground.

What it is: The current state of affairs, the status quo.

Guiding Questions: What is the current business context? What do we all know to be true? What is the relevant background?

The Situation should be brief and focused only on the information needed to understand the problem.

2. C - Complication

This is the core of the framework. The Complication is the event or trigger that disrupts the Situation. It creates tension and introduces the problem, challenge, or opportunity that needs to be addressed. This is the "so what?" factor that makes the discussion necessary.

Purpose: To introduce the problem and create urgency.

What it is: The change, the challenge, the threat, or the opportunity that has arisen.

Guiding Questions: What has changed or happened to disrupt the situation? Why is the current situation no longer sustainable? What is the core tension we are facing?

The Complication turns a simple observation into a problem that requires a solution.

3. R - Resolution

The Resolution is your proposed answer to the Complication. It's the call to action, the recommendation, or the solution you are putting forward. It should directly and logically address the problem you outlined in the Complication.

Purpose: To provide a clear, actionable solution.

What it is: The proposed path forward; your recommendation.

Guiding Questions: How do we solve this problem? What should we do now? What is our proposed plan?

The SCR framework provides a clear and logical structure for communication, making complex arguments easy for an audience to follow. By creating tension with a Complication that disrupts the initial Situation, it makes the proposed Resolution feel like a compelling and necessary solution.

Ultimately, its value is in its ability to persuade stakeholders and drive decisive action by transforming a simple observation into a problem that demands an immediate answer.