An Experiment in Problem Formulation

Abstract

In a recent paper (in Operational Research '81, North-Holland, 1981), the author put forward a methodology for problem-formulation. In order to test it, a group of teachers concerned with the introduction of a new, integrated operational research and systems analysis M.Sc. course agreed to accept the author as a consultant. The aim was to clarify and define their problem of developing and maintaining their new course. This paper describes the nature and course of the experiment. It comments on the difficulties that were encountered, and on the perceived benefits to the client-group and to the researcher.