Table 3 Analysis and interpretation of transition matrices

Stage 1: Rapport-building

Has a probability of 5.3% of remaining in Stage 1, indicating a relatively more efficient start.

Has a probability of 21.4% of staying in Stage 1 and 57.0% transiting to Stage 2, indicating a relatively less efficient start.

Stage 2: Problem-identification

Has a high likelihood of progressing to Stage 4 (45.5%), demonstrating a tendency of quickly engaging in solution development after identifying the problem.

Often remains in the same stage (49.0%) or moves to Stage 3 (43.6%), indicating a thorough, albeit perhaps prolonged problem identification and exploration.

Stage 3: Problem-exploration

Exhibits a strong orientation towards solution development with a probability of 52.1% moving to Stage 4, reflecting efficient problem exploration.

Displays a quite high probability of reverting to Stage 2 (52.4%) and staying in Stage 3 (39.9%), pointing to possible unclarities of the problem and difficulties in conceiving any actionable solutions.

Stage 4: Problem-solving

Demonstrates a focus on developing solutions with a high likelihood (47.5%) of staying in Stage 4 and a need to frequently reassess the problem with a probability of 31.7% revisiting Stage 3.

Has a probability of 46.2% of staying in Stage 4 and a notable chance of revisiting Stage 2 (37.6%), suggesting efforts to maintain solution-focused discussion and a need to repeatedly clarify the problem.

Stage 5: Wrap-up