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: