W i c k e d  P r o b l e m s

Wicked problems have been defined in different ways but the most influential formulation is probably that of Rittel and Webber in Problems in a General Theory of Planning, where they proposed 10 features of wicked problems. Wicked problems do not necessarily have all 10 features, but rather have varying degrees of wickedness depending on the number of features they display.

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1. There is no definitive formulation of the problem

2. The problem has no stopping rule (there is always more that could be done)

3. Solutions are good or bad to varying degrees, not true or false

4. There is no immediate or ultimate test of a solution (to measure its success)

5. There are few opportunities for trial-and-error (that do not have the potential for significant negative consequences)

6. It is impossible to know whether all potential solutions have been identified

7. A problem is essentially unique

8. A problem can be considered a symptom of another problem

9. The way in which a problem is described determines the ways in which it can be solved (e.g. 'delinquent street crime' has a different solution than 'oppressed youth lashing out')

10. Planners are held responsible for their errors

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If you would like to read more on wicked problems, I recommend these articles:

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Dilemmas in a General Theory of Planning, by Rittel and Webber - download link

Strategy as a Wicked Problem, by John Camillus - download link

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