What framework has worked for you to help you structure your thought process

I use a simple framework for critical thinking and problem-solving:

1. Define the problem: Break it down into a clear need statement. Understand dependencies, time sensitivity, and what you’re solving for. Once you really understand the problem, you should be able to explain it to somebody uninformed easily and in simple terms. 

2. Prioritize: Evaluate its importance against your other work based on impact and opportunity size.

3. Ideate solutions: Focus on options that balance impact and effort. The best solutions tend to be the most simple. 

4. Execute: Choose the best solution and act on it.
   

Always reassess assumptions, priorities, and impact at each step to ensure you're using your time and resources valuably.