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