Defining a problem is a deceptively simple task – what at first seems to be the problem is often merely a symptom of a deeper problem. The Problem Definition tool works to both open a problem up – presenting it in a way that can be examined from a number of angles – as well as helping to define the wider context and associated issues involved.
This is particularly effective when trying to focus a team of people on the key problems at hand. This tool has been designed to structure the analysis of a particular problem in a way that makes good use of your time. It introduces a small set of key criteria by which an issue can be articulated and assessed, which makes the activity highly efficient. It also gives you a standardised way to compare several different problems which might seem to be very different on the surface.
Latest User Experience
Steven Asei-Dantoni
Unicef
User Rating: 4
Hi, I used the problem definition tool in the creation of a social business in Nicaragua during my work on the field as a social innovation assistant manager. I worked with a group of kids between 18 and 24. In the city of Bilwi we are facing very complex problems. I decided to use this tool when looking into how could we go from creating activities to actually find ways to create a sustainable solution. It is documented as a case study on http://www.sadantoni.com/identifying-opportunities/ , Unicef wrote an article about the project here http://en.unicef.org.ni/prensa/123/ . Have a good day! Steven Asei Dantoni @sadantoni
Lok Meas
TPO Cambodia
User Rating: 4
Very good lesson!
Dr Raghavan Vasudevan
Coodu Trust, India
User Rating: 5
Problem Definition is a self evaluating tool for any organization. we need to critically examine the Vision, Mission, Aims and Objectives of the organization, Core values and thrust areas of work. it is really very difficult to evaluate / use the tool unless otherwise you understand the organization in depth. other issue is that you need to have the liberty to express your true views. ultimately brings value to the non profits if you do it judiciously. congrats to Global Giving for giving this opportunity.
Aylin
National network for children
User Rating: 4
The problem definition tool was a very useful exercise. Perhaps the most useful thing in it is to look at a problem in different angles, so it seems more ways to solve it.