Five Step Process: The following sequence of steps suggests how one might conduct a causal/resource analysis.

Step 1: Identify and Analyze a Comparative Situation: To begin the process of identifying causes and resources, identify or create a situation with which the current situation C8.fl; be compared. Three possible types of comparative situations are possible; they are as follows, listed in order of desirability from most to least desirable:

1. Type A: the situation as it currently exists compared with the same situation at some earlier point in time when the problem did not exist or was not as serious;
2. Type B: the situation as it currently exists compared with a similar situation in which the problem does not exist. or exists but is not as serious; and
3. Type C: the situation as it currently exists compared with the target.

It should be noted that sometimes it is possible to establish a comparative situation for either a type A or type B comparison in which the problem actually is worse than at present. Our experience, however, indicates that in the vast majority of problems you will ever encounter, the comparative situation will be one in which the problem does not exist or is not as serious. The possibility of establishing a comparative situation in which the problem is worse should be kept in mind, ·though, at least as a possibility.

Next, identify and collect relevant information about the comparative situation in terms of who, what, where, when, extent, and pattern. The kinds of questions you should ask about the comparative situation are as follows:

• Who is involved?
• What exactly is happening?
• Where is the comparative situation?
• What objects or processes are involved?
• When is the comparative situation taking place or how recently was it taking place?
• What is the extent?
• What is the pattern?

When you complete this step in a problem-solving effort, record your answers to these questions.

Step 2: Compare and Contrast the Current and Comparative Situations: Look for major similarities between the actual and comparative situations. What forces, motives, influences, or drives exist in both situations? Those factors that are common to both situations may be resources that will help move toward problem solution.

Then examine the actual and comparative situations for differences. Be as specific as possible in terms of who, what, where, when, extent, and pattern.