GUIDELINES TO NRDC feb 24 2014

Step 1: Define the ProblemIntroductionQuestionsProblemstatementVaguelydefinedproblemsThis section explains how to recognize and define a problem. A problem is--x A question raised for inquiry, consideration, or solution.x An unsettled question.x A source of perplexity--what stands between us and some goal.Recognizing a problem is often difficult:x May lack information to define it.x Can confuse symptoms with underlying causes.To define the problem, ask questions:— Problem Definition ChecklistWhat is the problem?Is this the real problem or merely a symptom of a larger one?Is it my problem?Can I solve it?Is it worth solving?Does it need an immediate solution, or can it wait?Is it likely to go away by itself?Can I risk ignoring it?Does the problem have ethical dimensions?What conditions must the solution satisfy?Will the solution affect conditions that must remain unchanged?If this is an old problem, what's wrong with the previous solution?Tip: Also use the table of questions and statements at page 4-7 when workingthrough the problem-solving steps.Define the problem by stating it in one of these forms:FormExampleInfinitive phrase. "To find ways to . . . "Statement of need. "We need to . . ."Question. "How can we . . . ?"Often a decision maker may state the problem in broad terms. The exactproblem may not be obvious. For clarity, use one of the above statements todefine the problem as you understand it. To ensure the decision maker agrees,send the statement to him for confirmation.NRDC GRC – Staff Handbook 5-3