PROBLEM ANALYSIS BACKGROUND
A problem is an existing but undesired state of affairs, generally with a desired alternative state (goal) in the mind of those defining it as a problem, and a variety of factors that impede change toward that goal. The first step in problem solving is a description and analysis of the problem.
Often controversy arises between people about the nature of a problem and/or its solutions. An issue is a question over which opposing arguments clash. A claim is any belief a speaker wants others to accept. There are four basic types of claims people make in arguments:
- Designative claims answer the question: "Is it?" The first thing people must do is convince others (or themselves) that there is a problem or whether something happened or not. Disagreements argues over questions of exigency: Is there really a problem here? How do we know it is a problem? Who is it a problem for? Does the problem affect us?
- Definitive claims answer the question: "What is it?" Having accepted the existence of a problem, people have disagreements about questions or fact: What is the problem? What is it like? What is going on? In this area are pragmatic constraints from the environment that often determine limitations on the solution.
- Evaluative claims answer the question: "What is its quality?" Disagreements exist about questions of value: What is the merit of the situation, idea, object, or action? What is the desirability? Is it good or bad? In this area are criteria or standards for judging solutions.
- Advocative claims answer the question: "What should be done about the problem?" Disagreements exist about questions of policy: What should be done? Will the idea work? Will it cost too much? Will it do more harm than good?
Link to Discussion Probes