Problem-Solution Format Analyzing the Problem Define the problem

Problem-Solution Format Analyzing the Problem

• Define the problem:

• What is the undesirable present? (State the problem in a declarative sentence.)
• What is the desired goal?
• What are the obstacles to reaching the desired goal?
• Identify which obstacles can be eliminated.
• Identify which obstacles can be managed.
• Identify possible future obstacles, if any.

Problem

• What are the causes of the problem? Consider multiple cases such as:

• Unpredictable
• Negligence
• Criminal activity
• Economics
• Politics
• Technology
• Consumer demand

Problem

• What are the symptoms of the problem? Consider multiple symptoms such as:

• Health risks
• Risks to survival or safety
• Economic hardship
• Threat to civil or human rights
• Lack of choice
• Inconvenience
• Destruction of property

Problem

• Who is directly affected by the problem?

• Who is indirectly affected by the problem?

• What will happen if nothing is done about the problem?

• Will it go away, stay the same, or progressively get worse?

• What is the extent of the problem?

• Consider the history of the problem
• Consider the geographical proportions of the problem.

Analyzing the Solution

• What are some of the possible solutions?

• What is the criteria for a satisfactory solution?
• Why are some solutions acceptable and others rejected?

• What is the ideal solution?

• Is it practical and workable?
• Is it moral and ethical?
• Is it legal?
• Is it logistically feasible?
• Is it economically feasible?

Solution

• Who supports the solution?

• Professional organizations?
• Legal and/or medical experts?
• Politicians?
• Citizen grassroots groups?
• Media?
• Victims of the problem?
• Voters?

Solution

• Who opposes the solution?

• Same as above
• Corporations and/or stockholders
• Other cities, states, or countries?

• How can you refute their arguments?

• What can we, as individuals, do to help solve the problem?

• Who has the jurisdiction to implement the solution?

• Legislature
• Individuals
• organizations