Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
percent of the problem. The residual problem may need a separate solution. The
residual problem may be irresolvable, e.g.,
if we repeal the law of gravity, we have a
solution
. The residual problem may be perfectly acceptable. The best possible out-
come is RSRP with 100 percent resolution.
The RSWP outcome may produce a brilliant solution. Brilliant solutions to the
wrong problem produce wonderful results that are of no use to anyone because the
solution has no problem to resolve. Another characterization of this type of result is
“build it and they will come” or “technology for technology's sake.” While at times
academically interesting, the investments in these types of solutions are a waste of
limited resources.
The WSRP may be a failure in any number of areas. A root cause analysis
(RCA) will assist in discovering personnel issues, process issues, technology issues,
etc., that contributed to the development of the wrong solution. Resolving the envi-
ronment that permits WSRP is absolutely critical to ensure such poor results do
not repeat themselves. The explanation for such results may be quite subtle in orga-
nization culture, individual psychology, mental maps, decision making, etc. The
formality of an RCA may assist with uncovering these nuances.
The WSWP is the worst of all situations with resource investments doomed
from the outset.
The Problem Space
There is a difference between the problem and the problem space. The problem
is what we are trying to identify and resolve. The problem space includes all the
aspects of and around the problem, including the environment within which the
problem occurs, the people and technology affected by the problem, and the people
and technology causing the problem.
PAD Methodology
The intent of the PAD methodology is to discover and record the details that com-
prise the problem space. Using the tables and guideline in this template, the PAD
methodology consists of:
n
−
n
n
n
Defining the problem space
Brainstorming
Problem statement
Reality check
Recommendation
Brainstorming
consists of generating ideas without criticism or evaluation—
free flow with anything that comes to mind. During brainstorming, there is noth-
