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Guides

7 Oct 2024

Problem Framing Canvas Workbook

By Griffith Centre for System Innovation

This handbook helps you clearly understand the problem your social enterprise or project is trying to solve. When you understand the real problem, it is easier to find better solutions. The canvas and guide include simple tools to help you define the problem, see different types of problems, and identify practical actions you can take.

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Summary

Investing time in understanding and making sense of your problem increases your ability to respond effectively. In this workbook, the team at Griffith Centre for Systems Innovation shares their Problem Framing Canvas alongside instructions for making your way through it. Practice:

  • refining your problem statement 
  • using rich pictures to ‘draw’ your problem
  • asking if there is a problem ‘behind’ your problem
  • framing problems differently
  • opening up opportunities for action
  • mapping stakeholders, actors and beneficiaries
  • considering the type and domain of your problem 
  • switching from problem-framing to idea-testing
  • considering what success looks like

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