Problem Statement
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5 WRITING THE NEEDS OR PROBLEM STATEMENT
Chapter topics:
Definitions The purpose of the needs statement A guide to writing the needs statement
The needs statement or problem statement provides the rationale for the request for funding and uses data and other objective resources that substantiate the need for finding a solution to the concern. This chapter will guide you through the process for crafting a need/problem statement.
DEFINITIONS
The term needs statement is generally used in seeking funding for programs or services, while problem statement usually applies to social or community concerns or research-oriented proposals. Oftentimes, the terms are used interchangeably; for our purposes, we will use both terms in this chapter. Our primary focus is on proposals written to improve conditions or address a problem existing within your community. As outlined in Chapter 4, you begin the proposal development process with an understanding of the need or problem as the basis for conceptualizing your proposed program or intervention. Likewise, when you begin writing the proposal, the needs/problem statement is typically the first section completed. It provides a convincing case regarding the extent and
39
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PROPOSAL WRITING
magnitude of the need or problem in your community, and it is written within the context of those who experience the problem directly or indirectly.
THE PURPOSE OF THE NEEDS/PROBLEM STATEMENT
The purpose of the needs/problem statement is to identify the compelling conditions, problems, or issues that are leading you to propose a plan of action. This section of your proposal does not describe your approach to address the need or problem; rather it provides a strong rationale for why support should be provided. The needs/problem statement is rooted in factual information. The conceptualization of your
6/12/2007
11:48 AM
Page 39
5 WRITING THE NEEDS OR PROBLEM STATEMENT
Chapter topics:
Definitions The purpose of the needs statement A guide to writing the needs statement
The needs statement or problem statement provides the rationale for the request for funding and uses data and other objective resources that substantiate the need for finding a solution to the concern. This chapter will guide you through the process for crafting a need/problem statement.
DEFINITIONS
The term needs statement is generally used in seeking funding for programs or services, while problem statement usually applies to social or community concerns or research-oriented proposals. Oftentimes, the terms are used interchangeably; for our purposes, we will use both terms in this chapter. Our primary focus is on proposals written to improve conditions or address a problem existing within your community. As outlined in Chapter 4, you begin the proposal development process with an understanding of the need or problem as the basis for conceptualizing your proposed program or intervention. Likewise, when you begin writing the proposal, the needs/problem statement is typically the first section completed. It provides a convincing case regarding the extent and
39
05-Coley-45286.qxd
6/12/2007
11:48 AM
Page 40
40
PROPOSAL WRITING
magnitude of the need or problem in your community, and it is written within the context of those who experience the problem directly or indirectly.
THE PURPOSE OF THE NEEDS/PROBLEM STATEMENT
The purpose of the needs/problem statement is to identify the compelling conditions, problems, or issues that are leading you to propose a plan of action. This section of your proposal does not describe your approach to address the need or problem; rather it provides a strong rationale for why support should be provided. The needs/problem statement is rooted in factual information. The conceptualization of your