Unit 3. Solution Identification

Solution identification involves brainstorming possible interventions and deciding which should be pursued.

Solution identification is one of the most important parts of the project lifecycle: after all, it determines what you’re going to do and how an intervention will be shaped.

Solution identification involves two steps: brainstorming (broad idea generation, building a ‘library’ of potential actions that could defuse sociopolitical tensions and mitigate environmental risks) and decisionmaking (determining which idea will be most effective and achievable). There is some natural overlap between solution identification and programme design (covered in Unit 4), as the tools used to determine the feasibility of proposed solutions can also support more detailed preparation.

Unit 3 begins with an overview of a few key principles for solution identification, emphasising the importance of spending focused time on solutions only after completing community mobilisation and participatory problem analysis. In Module 3.2, some techniques for guiding expansive brainstorming around solutions and interventions are introduced. Modules 3.3 and 3.4 provide resources for using and facilitating solution identification strategies in your own context.

Concepts, tools, and participatory methods discussed in Unit 3 include:

The three modules of Unit 3 will help users:

• consider the trade-offs between short-term solutions and long-term interventions
• appreciate how interactions within the climate, peace and security nexus might point toward less obvious responses to a specific concern
• value the multifaceted potential of nature-based solutions
• explain the importance of broad brainstorming combined with feasibility and prioritisation considerations
• consider how Linkage Charts can be used to help brainstorm connection ‘interruptions’
• highlight the need for climate sensitivity and contextual awareness through scenario forecasting
• engage diverse community members in collaborative analysis
• reflect on which tools will be most effective in a particular context
• brainstorm and decide on a meaningful solution through a multi-method, participatory approach

The overall purpose of Unit 3 is to equip facilitators with the knowledge, tools and skills they need to guide communities in considering and deciding on the most appropriate intervention for their climate, peace and security context.