Step Two: Situation Analysis

If the problem is identified by is not resolved merely as a result of its being identified, then an investigation must move to a second stage, that of situation analysis.

The factor which characterizes the boundaries of this activity level is that it is an internal investigation only - it investigates the immediate situation or context of the problem only. Many of our answers are to be found within our existing organizations or communities, especially once the actual problem has been correctly identified. The popular saying within community development and group dynamics circles of "the answer is in the room", is frequently true. This stage of the investigation is focused on finding the solution to the problem from within the organization. ___[] encourages people to "be their own consultants" by learning how to troubleshoot ones own organization before bringing in the outsiders.

Typically, in step two of the research process, secondary material is used a source of possible information, although primary interviews with front-line people often give useful insights. This is where the stories of "nobody bothered to ask the janitor" fit in. It is amazing who has observations, solutions, and insights once a problem has been identified. This level of investigation has a very low cost (except in terms of pride) and is frequently omitted in a rush to the glitzier levels of research.

____[]focuses his book on techniques for wading through the vast amount of internal data available to a company and outlines excellent techniques for developing tools for teasing out the significant data for routine procedures so that problems can be identified early in an organization. He claims that much of what a person needs to solve problems in a company can be found internally , if it, in fact can be located with ease.