Helpful Hints and Recommendations

Getting Started

Research is the real first step in the Future Problem Solving process. In order to provide a common knowledge base for all participants, FPS International offers a resource of basic information about each year's topics. Readings, Research, and Resources contains summaries of hundreds of articles from a variety of viewpoints, terms and definitions, and a list of resources to explore for further study. Last year's version sold for $36. The 2009-10 edition will be available soon at the online store in either book or CD format. Every coach should purchase a copy.

Power Strategies

• When brainstorming, write your ideas on small sticky notes with each team member using a different colored pad. Sticky notes are easy to move around the table, and the color helps identify the author of the idea. This is helpful because it is generally better for the originator of the challenge to write and explain the idea in the blank booklet.
• Read the instructions for step 1 printed in the blank booklet before writing challenges. This provides you with a last minute reminder of details to include in your description of the challenge. (Do this for every other step as well.)
• Identify and highlight the future scene charge before identifying challenges.
• Go back and highlight the future scene charge before examining challenges for an underlying problem.
• Test your underlying problem concept by briefly brainstorming solutions. If you find it particularly difficult, expand the focus or choose another area.
• Use a thesaurus when selecting or reviewing a key verb. It is worth the time required at this point (but probably no other).
• The underlying problem should deal directly with the problem. Avoid “generic” key verbs such as “educate” and “convince.”
• Completion of step 2 is generally considered the half-way point in the process. Teams should carefully evaluate their progress at this time and adjust accordingly.
• When brainstorming solution ideas, keep your underlying problem in plain sight on the table in front of you so you can refer to it frequently.
• Begin each solution idea with WHO will “solve” the underlying problem. This will give you one of the three necessary components to earn elaboration credit. Since you obviously must write the WHAT of your idea, that only leaves a WHY and/or HOW for full credit.
• Two team members rank ordering solutions on the evaluation grid is usually more efficient than all four team members contributing their opinions.
• Don’t try to manipulate the evaluation grid so that it selects your favorite idea. If you chose good criteria, the grid will yield a sound verdict.
• Don’t risk leaving out important parts of your action plan. Read the instructions printed in the booklet rather than depending on memory.

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Contact Coordinators for
Questions and Advice

State Director
Farimae Tate

State Evaluation Director
Patty Haskins

Community Problem Solving Coordinator
Anne Evans

Scenario Writing Coordinator
George Schauer

State Bowl Coordinator
Conway Blankenship

Web Site Coordinator
Dan Baise

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