Final answer:
The initial step for an interdisciplinary team establishing a procedure is to define the problem and establish goals, setting a clear foundation and direction for problem-solving and eventual solution development.
therefore the correct answer is a.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first step an interdisciplinary team should take when establishing a procedure is to define the problem and decide on goals. This involves a clear understanding of the scope of the project and the resources available. The problem definition sets the stage for further analysis, where a team can then go on to develop potential solutions, evaluate them, and agree on an action plan.
To define the problem, one often investigates the needs of potential customers, identifies potential competitors and their market positions, recognizes constraints imposed by government regulations or technological limitations, and considers design effort constraints such as personnel, time, and money. A problem statement is usually developed, which expresses the clear understanding of the objectives as well as the criteria and constraints for the solutions. This initial step is critical as it lays the groundwork for effective problem-solving.