Stage 4: Problem Analysis

Problem analysis

Outline the underlying causes of the problem.

Give the policy argument explaining the genesis of the problem (e.g. market failure, incorrect pricing, lack of investment signals, governance).

Provide data and other evidence to back up the policy arguments.

Identify fundamental cause, not symptoms, of the problem

Focus on the fundamental cause of the problem, e.g. the root cause of road congestion should not simply be claimed as a "lack of capacity" - what has caused the lack of capacity?  

It may, for example, be a demand/supply mismatch caused by incorrect pricing and excess demand, or a lack of supply side investment due to the absence of price signals or targeted revenue streams.

Problem Prioritisation

Identify why this problem has been prioritised against other problems across that network and/or region  - i.e. demonstrate which problems are most likely to hinder the achievement of goals and objectives.