Problem vs. Solution (Policy)

There is a difference between a problem and a policy. A policy is a specific solution or approach to a problem that you choose to develop. You don't always get to choose your problems. Often your problems choose you. But you always choose your policy, the solution(s) to the problem that you wish to solve. Air pollution is a problem. Changing the law to get older power plants covered by the same air quality regulations that apply to newer plants is a policy.

The people who have the problem agree on a policy (solution) and how to develop it and win support for it. They may define the policy narrowly: "Make our landlord return our rent deposits when we move out." Or, they may define it more broadly: "Make the city council pass a law requiring the return of rent deposits." If the landlord owns only the one building, the tenants may be able to win on their own, but if the landlord owns many buildings around the city, then building a coalition to pass a law might be the best way.

I = Identify the problem

D = Define and represent the problem

E = Explore possible alternative policy approaches (solutions)

A = Act on a chosen policy (solution)

L = Look back and evaluate the effects of your citizen action

Bicycling Crashes: Problem Identification - An Online Exercise in Identifying, Representing and Exploring the Problem of Bicycle Safety

This interactive exercise follows a problem identification and policy alternatives matrix. This site is presented by bicyclinginfo.org. As you work through their matrix, you will have a wonderful opportunity to see the first stages of our Project Citizen team process in action in a real-world application.

**This site refers to policies (solutions) as “countermeasures.” Please do not be confused. There are many different words to describe these types of processes.