Problem Tree Analysis - Advantages and Limitations

The simplicity of organizing the exercise and its emphasis on visualization and discussion make it easy to use across cultures in both rural and urban settings. The actual causes of problem(s) can be more effectively determined and addressed. The “real” problems can be addressed rather than just the symptoms. A good overview of the “extent” of the problems can be visualised quickly.

Listing of possible solutions at an early planning stage easily hampers objective and open-minded problem analysis. There is tendency to focus only on the problems that have been mentioned, other important problems are often ignored as a result. The problem tree gives no indication of the “magnitude” of the problem. The implication is that all problems are seen as being equally important. The “problem tree” technique is a tool that is useful in the identification and analysis stages. Users must have the knowledge and skills to use it and they must also understand the project environment. The contention is that any problem that involves transforming either material or abstract objects from one state to a goal state, in other words any problem can be analysed in this way. There is only an infinite availability of resources or time to resolve all of the problems. There is a need to determine the most economical solution, something that is not addressed by the trees analysis technique.