>I have not seen it mentioned yet but Rittel developed a method called
>Issue-Based Information System (IBIS) to provide a formal structure for
>discussion of wicked problems. A groupware product called CM/1 is
>available that manages IBIS in a network environment.
I would like to second Paul Lindsey's recommendation. We use CM/1, now
called Questmap, to examine so-called "wicked problems" in a group
setting.
The IBIS method works by breaking down all problems into three elements:
Issues, Postisions, and Arguements (IPAs). The Questmap product is
graphical, easy to use and teach, and facilitates the structured thinking
approach for all participants. Once you leave a well-run session, you
start to view all problems, issues, questions with the same rational
mindset. We use Questmap as a chaufeurred groupware method (one
facilitator, listening and diagramming discussions while projecting the
session in front of the group.) However, the general officer staff of the
USMC uses the product as a distributed groupware application, dialing in
from their laptops for true anytime, anyplace meetings.
Another benefit of Questmap is that it stores learnings in a very compact
and visually accessible form, making it a good vehicle for learning
histories. (Although no replacement for Lotus Notes.)
-- LtCol Robert Glitz, ANG National Guard Bureau Washington, DC rglitz_xo@ANGRC.ANG.AF.MIL