ABSTRACT
During the problem-definition stage, the analyst attempts to frame the problem in concrete terms and to develop a statement that gives the client a firm understanding of the problem’s technical and political dimensions. The client, supervisor, or policymaker usually imposes at least the preliminary definition of the problem. The pragmatic approach is consistent with the perspective that a policy analysis can be conducted only when there is disagreement about how an issue or problem is being handled, and when there are alternative ways to deal with the problem. Escalating standards can create relative problems that are interpreted as absolute problems. Practitioners and academics frequently cite problem definition as the most difficult or crucial step in policy analysis. In the health-care case, variables to be considered might include patient or household payments, but they may also include third-party payments.
