1.1 Broadly identify the problem of interest

Identify the main problem—the broad development challenge that requires attention—early in the process.

Define the two or three biggest obstacles to achieving the desired outcomes.

Focus the process on identifying the “results, roles, relationships, rules, and resources” required to solve the problem or meet the challenge. (see USAID’s 5Rs Framework)

Consider the complexity of the problem: How easily can it be solved? What information is needed to identify solutions? What factors are being overlooked?

Tools:

5Rs Framework

Series:
IFPRI descriptor:
Countries/Regions:sustainability; integrating system practice; national ownership; local ownership; 5Rs framework; program cycle

United States Agency for International Development (USAID)

3

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Future Visioning/Strategic Visioning

Series:
IFPRI descriptor:
Countries/Regions:Future Visioning; strategic visioning; theory of change; planning

International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD)

1

Detail | View

Reflexive Monitoring in Action

Series:
IFPRI descriptor:
Countries/Regions:mapping; institutional change

Wageningen UR

2

Detail | View

Rich Picture Analysis

Series:
IFPRI descriptor:
Countries/Regions:mind map

BetterEvaluation

1

Detail | View

Future, Backwards Method

Series:
IFPRI descriptor:
Countries/Regions:

Cognitive Edge

1

Detail | View