As I get older I notice more and
more the skills that I learnt
through the program revealing
themselves in my study and
everyday life. I think the FPS skills
are especially relevant to
engineering students, of which I
am one.
Georgina, Olivia and team
working on a problem
Georgina McKenzie,
IC GIPS Team 2008, Class of 2009
STEP 2:
UNDERLYING PROBLEM
About an Underlying Problem:
The Underlying Problem is the most important step in the process. It is the catalyst for all the
ideas and recommendations which follow. The structure of the Underlying Problem is crucial.
There must be a condition statement that links to the Future Scene and explains the area of
focus. There must be only one key verb phrase which mandates what the solutions must
accomplish, and one purpose which is the general goal to be accomplished. The Underlying
Problem must also include the Future Scene parameters of time, place and topic.
What makes Step 2 Challenging?
It is difficult for students to select an important issue or sub-problem which, if solved, will have
a positive impact on the entire Future Scene. Students must also be careful not to shift the
emphasis away from the charge and Future Scene parameters. A good Underlying Problem is
specifically focussed on a sub-group from the Future Scene so it is clear what is to be
achieved.
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