Problem Diagnosis and Prioritization in Project Planning
Diagnosis: Understanding the Problem
Diagnosis is the process of analysis, measurement, and interpretation used to identify problem situations and the causal factors involved. This process provides the necessary background to plan and guide action effectively. A proper diagnosis must fulfill three functions: descriptive, explanatory, and predictive.
Information Sources
Primary Sources:
- Interviews with informants
- Focus groups
- Specific surveys (case studies)
Secondary Sources:
- Census economic statistics
- Household Survey of Employment
- Other relevant data sources
The Importance of Diagnosis
A thorough diagnosis describes and explains a problem by providing information on areas such as population, location, and deficits. It provides the background necessary to plan an intervention strategy effectively. It is impossible to design an intervention properly without a comprehensive analysis of the situation. Diagnosis also allows for the rational allocation of available resources and is a central element of appraisal during and after the intervention.
The diagnosis must be consistent with the experience and competence of the institution. It is essential that a multidisciplinary team prepares it, with the participation of those affected by the problem. The information submitted must be accurate, concise, and truthful.
Problem: Definition and Identification
What is a Problem?
A problem denotes a situation of inconvenience, dissatisfaction, or a negative condition. It may manifest as the lack of a good thing or the existence of something bad. This state or unsatisfactory situation cannot be resolved independently by those affected.
How to Identify a Problem
Identify a problem by contrasting the situation to be analyzed concerning distances or deviations from usual, normal, or standard levels. This requires an external reference for detection. Compare the situation with desirable levels, referring to vision values that guide the identification.
How to Prioritize Problems
Consider these factors when prioritizing problems:
- Magnitude: The number of affected populations
- Severity: The percentage of direct impact on the quality of life (current or future)
- Possibility of Prevention: The feasibility of reversing potential problems or risk factors that undermine the target population’s quality of life
- Importance to the Community: The level of concern within the community
- Biodiversity Affected: The level of deterioration in the natural environment
Three main sources for identifying problems are systematic experience, literature review, and the population’s perception.
Identifying the Problem Clearly
- Write each issue as a negative condition (unambiguous).
- Only identify existing problems, not possible or potential ones.
- Focus the analysis on one main problem.
- A problem is not the absence of a solution; it is an existing negative state.
Conceptual Definition
Provide a literary representation of the concept associated with the problem. This ensures that the problem is not interpreted differently based on individual understanding.
Main Steps of the Method
- Analysis of the Problem
- Analysis of Objectives
- Analysis of Alternatives
Logic
- Identify the main problems in the situation analysis.
- Formulate the central problem.
- Define the effects of the problem and verify its importance.
- Note the central causes of the problem.
- Create a tree diagram showing cause and effect.
- Review the schema and verify its validity.