Teaching problem formulation in technology, policy and management education: A systems approach

Formulating and delineating a problem and presenting a solid proposal for follow-up research is a challenge for any strategy or policy analyst. This paper describes how at TU Delft students in policy analysis and engineering management learn how to use a systems approach for exploring and analyzing complex problem situations. Their analysis should result in a clear and consistent problem framing, including definition and scope of the problem, the parties involved and their interest and power, possible strategies, relevant uncertainties, and recommended further research.