If we are doing a meeting to discuss a problem and the solution, a good alternative would be to share a document.
The document should clearly explain:
- What we are doing? (To understand the problem and context)
- Why we are doing? (Context around why this is important and use cases)
- How are we solving it? (Propose a clear and concise solution)
Once the document is shared we can have the following scenarios:
- Accept the solution:
Next step - No meeting required
- Reject the solution:
Next step - Propose a new solution. Run the same process or have a meeting to discuss the two solutions.
- Suggestions:
Next step - The owner can decide to accept/reject suggestions.
- Doubts/questions:
Next step - Depending upon the question, answer it in the doc or continue with the meeting.
This is actually not a complete replacement for meetings but adding this step may help reduce the number of meetings.