Means-end analysis

Means-end analysis

Using a means-end approach basically means looking at a target, which is the starting point, and figuring out the best way to get from point A to point B by breaking down the list of issues to make them more feasible on a daily basis.

Pinpoint the desired result and describe it in a few lines.

Before taking any actions, add some pre-conditions with a short description that will support you attain the final outcome.

Because any situation has two sides, positive and negative, take into consideration the challenges that may occur while trying to shift from the current situation to the target one. Finally yet importantly, shortly explain your current status.

Where to next?

Where to next?

You can now download your map or Share it with your colleagues.

Target outcome

Name the target outcome


Begin by identifying the target outcome in a few words and press Enter.

For example, you might be aiming to increase production capacity, so this would be your target outcome.

Pre-conditions and actions

Condition

Add a condition before 'Target outcome'

What are the pre-requisites or conditions before you can reach 'Target outcome'?

Add a short description of a condition that must exist before you can reach 'Target outcome'. Remember to observe the constraints that you listed.

Example:

• Higher speed production equipment
• Trained operators
• An increased supply of components

Condition or action

What needs to be done before you can reach 'Condition'?

If this position is reachable from the current situation, then you can type in the next action instead.

If 'Condition' is already an action that can be done, then just press Enter.

Example: if 'Trained operators' is an intermediate step, then the pre-requisites could be:

• Finding suitable training
• Identifying staff for training

Add a condition or action before 'Condition or action'


What needs to be done before you can reach 'Condition or action'? What are the conditions of reaching this position? If this position is reachable from the current situation, then you can type in the next action instead.

If 'Condition or action' is already an action that can be done, then just press Enter.

What needs to be done before you can reach 'Condition or action'? What are the conditions of reaching this position?

If this position is reachable from the current situation, then you can type in the next action instead.

If 'Condition or action' is already an action that can be done, then just press Enter.

Action

What needs to be done before you can achieve 'Condition or action'?

If 'Condition or action' is already an action that can be done, then just press Enter.

Constraints

Constraint

Add a constraint that limits what you can do in moving from the current situation to the target situation.

A constraint may be:

• Time limitations
• Cost & resource limitations
• Technological limitations
• Performance limitations
• Policies, regulations or laws
• The interests of other stakeholders

Current situation

Describe your current situation

Add a line describing where you are now.

Target situation

Describe the target situation


Add a line describing where you want to be in the future.