Begin with an understanding of how things work.  Difficulties in solving problems often stem from the fact that problems do not occur in isolation, but in relation to each other. Attempting to solve complex issues without systems thinking can result in more problems or unintended consequences. The solution may only address a part or a symptom of the system, rather than creating solution that addresses a root cause. Systems thinking is a powerful approach for understanding the nature of why situations are the way they are, and how to go about improving results. Really understand the evolution of things; how did this evolve over time. What’s been done already? What didn’t work? Why?