You are going to analyze a current problem. The problem can be of any nature (school, city, engineering, etc.). This project is going to go through the first two steps of the problem solving heuristic (define and generate). A problem will be defined and possible solutions brainstormed to offer solutions to the problem.

The assignment will be broken down into 3 parts:

Problem Definition: A problem will be selected. Problem definition will occur through the use of 2 problem definition methods (Duncker Diagram, K.T. Problem Analysis, Statement-Restatement Technique). Documents showing use of both methods (diagram format) will be submitted as part of the project.

Solution Generation: Possible solutions to the proposed problem will be brainstormed. Solution generation will occur through the use of 3 different solution generation methods in addition to free association (SCAMPER, 77 Cards, Random Stimulation, Other Points of View, Futuring, Cross-Fertilization, Analogy). Documents showing use of free association (list format) and the 3 other methods (list/diagram format) will be submitted as part of the project.

Oral Presentation and Report : A presentation identifying the defined problem with potential solutions to solve the problem will be presented to the class as an oral presentation. The oral presentation will require a visual aid. A report will also need to be submitted (in written form) that outlines everything that was done about the problem (origination through definition and solution brainstorming). The report will need to contain the following sections/information:

Introduction (What is the problem and where did the idea of problem originate?)

Problem Definition (What methods were used and what does your group think is the "real" problem?)

Solution Generation (What methods were used to generate solutions and what solutions did your group come up with?)

Appendix (Problem Definition and Solution Generation method lists/diagrams your group created).