Problem Structuring Process by Qualitative Meta-synthesis Technologies

Abstract

In this chapter, we first review some typical frameworks proposed for the so-called unstructured or wicked problem solving and the relevant computerized support development. Those include two decision-making models for decision support systems development (Simon's 3-phase model and Courtney's framework) and two problem structuring approaches in strategic decision-making (strategic assumption surfacing and testing -- SAST by US scholars and Wisdom process proposed by UK researchers). Such an analysis aims to explain the working philosophy of meta-synthesis system approach, especially toward problem structuring where supporting technologies are needed to help distill visions from those original or first-hand on-site community opinions. Finally two technologies, CorMap and iView for qualitative meta-synthesis applied to idea or assumptions generation for further verification and validation, are briefly addressed, together with their practical applications on group discussion, social psychology mining and expert knowledge mining, etc.