Appendix: Frequently Asked Questions
J. Jerry Kaufman, Roy Woodhead PhD · 2006
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONSThe following are answers to questions asked frequently following the completion of a learning course and workshop using function analysis system techniques (FAST) modeling.The way we have written the responses assumes that you have read the book.As such, we do not spend time defining terms such as basic function.If you have not read the book, our answers may be difficult to grasp on first reading.We advise you to read the book before reading these question and answers.Q. Three questions are asked prior to starting a FAST model; why are they asked?A. The questions to which you are referring are:• What is the problem (or opportunity) that we are about to resolve?• Why do you consider this a problem (or opportunity)?• Why do you believe that a solution (resolution) is necessary?The questions are asked at the opening of a VE assignment to ensure that all team members are addressing the same problem and to uncover any hidden agendas and systemic trends of which we should be aware.Essentially, the questions are meant to get us as a team to explore the context within which our interventions will be judged.It is from such strategic opportunity and problem framing that we gain a clearer view of both value and success and who will evaluate it.The questions are also asked when FAST is used to map a new product or process functionally.Contained within the answers to the first question are guidelines to the FAST model's primary theme and level of abstraction.The second and third questions, starting with why, test the first question to ensure that we have Stimulating Innovation in Products and Services: With Function Analysis and Mapping, by