The Situation-Complication-Resolution (SCR) framework is an easy way to organize a story or explanation. It’s especially helpful for clear communication in business settings.
The Situation-Complication-Resolution (SCR) framework is an easy way to organize a story or explanation. It’s especially helpful for clear communication in business settings.
What is it?
The SCR Framework stands for Situation, Complication, and Resolution. It’s a storytelling structure that helps presenters communicate their message clearly and persuasively by guiding the audience through a logical flow.
The framework is simple but powerful: start by outlining the situation—what’s happening right now, the current state of affairs. Then introduce the complication—what’s the problem or challenge that disrupts this status quo. Finally, lead to the resolution—how do we solve this problem, and what action do we take to move forward?
Situation: The Situation is all about setting the context. This is where you define the current state or environment. Think of it as orienting your audience—it answers the question, "Where are we now?" Whether you’re presenting a project, pitching an idea, or teaching a concept, you need to start with something the audience can relate to. It should feel familiar to them—like, "Yes, I know this, I’ve been here."
Complication: The Complication is the real hook. This is where you introduce tension by outlining the problem or challenge that disrupts the status quo. It answers the question, "What’s wrong?" or "What’s the pain point?" The goal here is to show why the current situation isn’t working, or why there’s a need for change.
Resolution: The Resolution is the payoff—this is where you present your solution, idea, or recommendation. It answers the question, "How do we fix this?" You’ve built up the tension with the complication, and now you’re guiding them toward relief by resolving it. This is where you offer clarity and direction. Ideally, you’re showing how your solution directly addresses the complication. It’s not just about what the solution is, but why it’s the right one, and how it will lead to positive outcomes.
Why it works
We like stories with structure. We want to know the background, understand the conflict, and feel good about the resolution. SCR makes it easier for people to focus on what matters: 'What’s the problem, and how are we solving it?'
When to use it
It’s ideal for problem-solving, persuasive, or data-driven presentations, especially when addressing executives or stakeholders who expect logical and actionable insights. Avoid using it for purely informational or inspirational presentations without a central issue to resolve.
Remember to
Ensure that each phase of the SCR framework receives appropriate emphasis. While the complication often grabs attention, it's essential not to rush through the situation or resolution phases.
Step-by-step
How to use the SCR framework to write a presentation
Title
Write content to help your customers to better understand your products or policies.
Step 1: Get your content ready
Before jumping into the SCR Framework, start by compiling all your data, research, and key points. This could be anything from facts, figures, and market analysis to customer insights or project details. Organize them in a way that’s easy to reference.
Tip: Don’t worry about fitting it into the framework just yet—this is just your raw material.
Step 2: Describe the situation
The goal is to explain "what's going on"—to provide a clear understanding of the current state or context. Ask yourself: What is the current state or status quo? What does my audience already know?
Write 2–3 sentences that clearly explain the current state. This will be your foundation.
If you’re talking about a business problem, your situation might include things like: “Our sales have remained flat for three quarters despite increased marketing efforts.”
Goal: Provide just enough context for your audience to understand the starting point. Make it familiar and relatable.
Step 3: Identify the complication
Now, dig into what’s wrong. This is the problem or challenge you need to solve. Your goal is to explain why the current situation is no longer sustainable or efficient.
Look at your data or key points. Ask: What’s the central issue? What pain points are my audience facing? Write a paragraph that describes the problem in detail. This could include things like competitor pressure, market changes, inefficiencies, etc.
Goal: Build urgency. Make your audience see the gap between where they are and where they need to be. This is the hook that keeps them invested in your presentation.
Step 4: Develop the resolution
Now that you’ve built up the problem, it’s time to offer your solution.
This is where your expertise and insight come in. From your information, pull out the key solution(s) that directly address the complication. How does your idea, plan, or recommendation fix the issue?
Write a few paragraphs that outline your proposed resolution and clearly explain the benefits. Be specific: provide examples, use supporting data, and illustrate why your approach works.
Goal: Show your audience how the resolution will solve the problem and lead to positive outcomes. The more tangible and practical your solution, the more convincing it will be.
Step 5: Draft the presentation outline
Use the completed statements for Situation, Complication, and Resolution to start the formal presentation outline. Make each statement it's own section, and expand through clear explanations that are supported by relevant evidence and examples.
Pay close attention to transitions between sections to guide your audience smoothly from one topic to the next. This helps maintain a logical and coherent flow, preventing the audience from getting lost in the presentation.
Download the worksheet
