End Products
At the end of phase 1, you should be able to do two things:
1. Draft a problem description.
2. Identify information gaps.
Draft Problem Description
All of the information gathered so far will be used to draft the problem
description. There is no set format for a problem description. It is nice to
have a detailed document where everything is written down, so that you can refer
back to it if you need to justify any of your decisions. However, it is more
important that you think through each of these elements as you begin your
planning process.
The problem description is a working document for your benefit, and will be
regularly revised as you move forward. You may abandon some options, add new
information, or revise the content based on new knowledge you gain. So, it isn't
necessary to spend time making it look nice unless you need to share it with
your partners or with your funding agency.
Tip
You will want to note the secondary data and specific sources that support
your decisions. If an issue arises that requires some discussion later, you will
be able to review supporting data and your rationale for the decisions you make.
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