DOCA.4:1 - Problem Frame

Use this when a worthwhile problem or proposed contribution is clear enough to explore, but the proposed direction is still “train,” “buy,” “automate,” “hire,” or “learn Pattern X.” Those labels omit the change, later Work, access, support, transition burden, and evidence that would make the contribution possible.

Start by describing one finite change from the actual situation, together with the support needed to obtain the proposed contribution. Construct a materially different way when it could change the inquiry. The first useful result is a small set of contribution-bearing direction/support configurations, or one such candidate with an exact missing alternative or premise.

A direction here is a prospective change in contribution, capability, use, or enabling conditions over a declared horizon. Its description is not an obtaining arrangement, selected programme, WorkPlan, performed Work, or choice. A person exploring their own development can use it without asking for advice.

Ordinary non-use boundary. Reuse adequate directions when only reachability or comparison remains. If the receiving problem or contribution is still missing, use DOCA.3; do not complete a training or tool configuration around an unexamined need. If a domain practice owns the whole configuration question, use it directly. Once one organization result, use, and acceptance premise are stable and whole obtaining arrangements are the decision, OCE.8 supplies that comparison and its authorized return.