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‘Doing the right problem’ versus ‘doing the problem right’: problem structuring within a Land Force environment

Author

Listed:
  • N J Curtis

    (Defence Science & Technology Organisation)

  • P J Dortmans

    (Defence Science & Technology Organisation)

  • J Ciuk

    (Defence Science & Technology Organisation)

Abstract

The essential first step of any OR investigation is to ensure that the ‘right problem’ is studied. Our approach is to propose a set of six ‘rights’ or questions whereby achievement against particular aspects of a problem space is made and these provide the basis for scoping the context, understanding the system, and proposing sound options to the decision-maker. This style of problem structuring is an essential element of the Defence problem domain, and especially so for the Land Force, where there exist multiple degrees of freedom for poorly defined problems in an environment of uncertainty and ambiguity. Central to this is performing conceptual rather than analytical modelling, as perturbations then provide a basis for exploring a space, rather than solving a problem.

Suggested Citation

  • N J Curtis & P J Dortmans & J Ciuk, 2006. "‘Doing the right problem’ versus ‘doing the problem right’: problem structuring within a Land Force environment," Journal of the Operational Research Society, Palgrave Macmillan;The OR Society, vol. 57(11), pages 1300-1312, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:pal:jorsoc:v:57:y:2006:i:11:d:10.1057_palgrave.jors.2602123
    DOI: 10.1057/palgrave.jors.2602123
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    References listed on IDEAS

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