Finding the Problem: the Foundation of the Requirements Engineering Process

This paper examines the cognitive processes involved in problem finding as part of the Requirements Engineering (RE) process. It describes intensive field research that provided rich understanding of the practices of systems analysts. The paper makes three contributions to cognitive research in Information Systems. Firstly, three characteristics of analysts’ problem finding in the early stages of the RE process are identified. Some of these observations have been noted previously in other domains. However, it is the combination of characteristics that typifies problem finding in the RE process. The importance of these characteristics is demonstrated through a comparison of the practices of an expert and a novice analyst. Secondly, observation of analysts’ exploration of the problem space has led to an revised definition of opportunism that is applicable to problem finding. Thirdly, empirically-based understanding of the cognitive processes involved in problem finding provides for practical improvements to the early stages of the RE process. The paper concludes with suggestions for training, supporting and managing analysts during their problem finding activities.