Abstract:

The concept behind 'The Problems and Objectives trees' is to aid conceptualisation of innovative ideas. It takes the form of a diagram, utilising perceived problems, detailing their causes and effects and therefore resolving potential issues, whilst they are in process. It is an analytical and flexible tool, which enhances commitment to a project, transparency, structuring and participation. The design of the 'trees', is a fundamental tool to analyse and conceptualise innovative ideas in a participatory, collaborative and agile way, thus ensuring the success of projects linked to products or services, processes or management.

Even if you have an innovative idea, you have nothing if you do not have a process in order to actualise it. An idea is always the starting point of a 'value chain' in any innovative project. A fundamental aspect in the success of an innovative project is to carry out an appropriate identification phase, in which analysis and conceptualisation is undertaken. This will help to ensure the correct design and formulation of the project and therefore hopefully its ultimate success.

A project always aims to resolve a problem or need, has a clearly defined objective, concrete quantifiable results and a defined methodology. A new idea can mean the starting point towards the construction of a project. In order for the idea to progress, in-depth analysis of the needs and objectives, as well as the definition of the results to be achieved, should be undertaken.

This practice aims to offer students an approach to the Problem tree of techniques and objectives, as fundamental tools to analyse and conceptualise participatory and agile innovative ideas, thus ensuring the success of projects linked to products or services, processes or management.

Keywords:

Problem trees, goal trees, conceptual maps, collaborative design, problem solving, project design, innovative ideas.