conversation2e

Define the Problem

Some people define a problem with a particular solution in mind. As a result, their solution usually looks good in theory. But a solution based on a weak problem definition seldom works well in practice, and it is unlikely to convince your readers. For this and other reasons, you should define your problem as clearly and accurately as possible.

You can define your problem by exploring situation and effects, focusing on actions, examining severity and duration, and considering goals and barriers.

Situation/effects. Explore the effects a problematic situation has on people or things. Ask yourself:

What is the situation?
What are its effects?
Who or what is affected?

Agent/goals/actions/results. Focus on actions that have unwanted results. Ask yourself:

Who or what is the agent (the person, group, or thing that acts in a manner that causes a problem)?
What are the agent’s goals?
What actions does the agent carry out to accomplish the goals?
What are the results of the agent’s actions?

Severity and duration. Analyze the severity and duration of the effects of a problematic situation. Ask yourself:

What is the situation?
What effects are associated with the situation?
How severe are the effects?
What is the duration of the effects?

Goals and barriers. Identify goals, and ask what obstacles stand in the way of accomplishing them. Ask yourself:

What are the goals?
What barriers stand in the way of accomplishing the goals?

Most of these methods of defining a problem focus on cause/effect relationships, and many involve unintended consequences. However, each one allows you to view a problem from a different perspective. Because your problem definition has powerful effects on the development of a solution to your problem, it can be useful to experiment with different ways of defining the problem.