Final answer:
To identify and define a problem effectively, consider the 5 W's: Who is involved, What you want to achieve, Where the problem is occurring, When it needs to be solved, and Why it's important. These aspects set the groundwork for understanding the problem's scope, stakeholders, urgency, location, and significance.
Step-by-step explanation:
When identifying and defining a problem, there are five critical aspects to consider to ensure that your approach is comprehensive and targeted. These are commonly referred to as the 5 W's, which include:
Who is involved in the problem? Identify all the stakeholders affected by the problem.
What exactly do you want to accomplish in addressing the problem? This defines the scope and objective of problem-solving.
Where is the problem occurring? The location or context in which the problem exists can provide insights into potential solutions.
When does the problem need to be addressed? Setting a timeline is essential for timely resolution.
Why is this problem important and why should it be solved? Understanding the significance of the problem helps in prioritizing and gaining support for your solution.
After identifying the 'given' information and the stakeholders, it's important to also understand the cause of the problem, who is affected by it, the potential negative effects, and why it is imperative to solve it.