The problem solving process is now primarily social, rather than individualistic. The process goal is a solution that works and can be embraced by all of the stakeholders, not the right answer. In this environment, a new set of tools is needed to help groups create shared understanding, shared meaning, and shared commitment. VIMS is such a tool. At the heart of VIMS is IBIS, a simple language for mapping the structure of any conversation, no matter how complex or contentious.
Questions can expand on or challenge other questions, ideas, or arguments.
VIMS is the art of using IBIS in a shared display. The shared display could be a whiteboard or flipcharts, but the most powerful and flexible is a computer display project coupled with a software tool called QuestMap that can be used by groups or individuals to create and manage electronic VIMS maps of any scale and complexity. Facilitating a group using QuestMap and a bright computer display screen is an especially effective way of helping a group work through a wicked problem. The VIMS process is not linear, and does not even require starting with a question. As decisions are made, their full context and rationale is recorded in the VIMS map.