The Problem Tree is a tool used in the Logical Framework Analysis (LFA) process to help NGOs identify and understand the causes and effects of the central problem they are trying to address. It visualizes the problem by mapping out its root causes and consequences, providing a structured approach to problem-solving and project planning.
Key Components of a Problem Tree:
- Core Problem: The main issue that the project aims to address. This is usually identified through consultation with stakeholders and should reflect the central challenge the NGO wants to tackle.
- Causes: These are the underlying factors or root causes that lead to the core problem. Causes are placed beneath the core problem in the tree, and each cause can have sub-causes that further explain why the problem exists.
- Effects: These are the consequences or impacts of the core problem. Effects are placed above the core problem in the tree, illustrating the negative outcomes that result from the problem.
The Problem Tree helps the NGO clearly understand the problem by breaking it down into smaller, manageable parts. It also serves as the foundation for developing the Objective Tree, which turns the problem tree into solutions.
Example of a Problem Tree in an NGO Context:
Let’s say an NGO is working on improving access to education in a rural area. Through the LFA process, they develop the following problem tree.
Core Problem:
Low access to quality education for children in the rural area.
Causes:
Insufficient school infrastructure (lack of classrooms, desks, and textbooks).
- Sub-cause: Limited government funding for school facilities.
- Sub-cause: Poor school management practices.
High dropout rates (children leave school before completing basic education).
- Sub-cause: Families cannot afford school fees or uniforms.
- Sub-cause: Children are needed to work and support family income.
Lack of trained teachers (low teacher-to-student ratio, poor teaching quality).
- Sub-cause: Teachers are not well-paid or supported.
- Sub-cause: Inadequate teacher training and development programs.
Low community awareness about the importance of education.
- Sub-cause: Parents prioritize work over education.
- Sub-cause: Cultural beliefs that undervalue formal education, especially for girls.
Effects:
- High rates of illiteracy among children and youth in the area.
- Limited job opportunities for youth as they grow older, trapping them in poverty.
- Increased child labor as children leave school to work and support their families.
- Perpetuation of the poverty cycle in the community due to lack of education.
How It Helps the NGO:
- Prioritization of Actions: The Problem Tree helps the NGO identify which issues are critical to address first. For example, if insufficient school infrastructure is the primary cause, the project might focus on building new classrooms or securing more funding for school materials.
- Clarity of Focus: By breaking down the problem, the NGO can create specific objectives for each cause. For instance, reducing dropout rates might involve introducing programs that provide financial support to families or creating awareness campaigns about the value of education.
- Identification of Stakeholders: The causes and effects help to identify who is affected by the problem (e.g., students, families, teachers) and who needs to be involved in the solution (e.g., government, local businesses, community leaders).
- Foundation for an Objective Tree: Once the Problem Tree is complete, the NGO can create an Objective Tree. The Objective Tree mirrors the Problem Tree but with solutions. For example, “lack of trained teachers” becomes “increased availability of trained teachers,” and so on.
Conclusion:
The Problem Tree is an essential tool in the Logical Framework Analysis for an NGO. It provides a clear picture of the problem’s structure, helping the NGO design a focused and effective intervention by addressing both the causes and effects of the central problem.
