DA 4302: Coping with Wicked Problems
Loading...
Authors
Roberts, Nancy C.
Subjects
Advisors
Date of Issue
2006
Date
Fall Quarter 2006
Publisher
Language
Abstract
This interdisciplinary seminar focuses on a class of problems—“wicked problems” or “messes.” Evidence of wicked problems comes from experts in many quarters—product designers, software engineers, planners, program managers and policy makers. All warn that traditional methods of problem solving are not working and no apparent alternatives are in sight. Wicked problems have the following characteristics: 1) there is no agreement about “the problem.” In fact, the formulation of the problem IS the problem. 2) There is no agreement on a solution. In actuality, stakeholders put forward many competing “solutions” none of which have stopping rules to determine when the problem is solved. 3) The problem solving process is complex because constraints, such as resources and political ramifications, are constantly changing. 4) Constraints also change because they are generated by numerous interested parties who come and go, change their minds, fail to communicate, or otherwise change the rules by which the problem must be solved. Using case studies, readings and actual dilemmas confronting military officers and government officials, students learn to recognize when they are in wicked problem territory and what coping strategies and tactics might be useful in this context.
Type
Course Notes
Description
Series/Report No
Department
Organization
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Identifiers
NPS Report Number
Sponsors
Funding
Format
Citation
Distribution Statement
Rights
This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.