Solutions looking for problems? Can you give examples of solutions to problems that either don't exist or exist because of the solution?

Sgt Jeffrey Clish — Wed, 10 Jun 2015 16:39:21 -0400

In my consulting role to the Military, I have come across many solutions that I think are either searching for a problem or problems were created because the solution was developed. The one example I have come across, and I have had many argument with leadership about, is the Joint Strike Fighter. Being a pilot myself, I find this platform as one of the most advance and coolest flying machine in the inventory. However, is it worth the tens if not hundreds of Billions of dollars in R&D and production? We have leaders parading the streets singing the advanced capability of the aircraft, but do we really need it? Even Chuck Yeager say it's too expense and he can do the same thing in an F-15 at a fraction of the cost. And, with the advent of RPVs, do we really need a super expensive manned fighter or can we do with what we have and fill the gap with RPVs? Just some thoughts...

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 10 at 2015 4:43 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 10 Jun 2015 16:43:05 -0400

I deal with this mentality all the time in my low-level job. I manage medical records. Basically, just the archives. Crazy easy job that anyone with a work ethic and inventory management skills can do. I know how to keep the records, and for what reasons records might be requested. BUT EVERYONE has an opinion about a better way for me to do my job. The thing is, they're solving imaginary problems with solutions that, at best (and even this is usually a stretch) makes obtaining my files more convenient for them, but would leave the filing room itself in complete disarray.

Let me ask this about RPV to a pilot:

Do YOU think that RPV can replace pilots altogether? I have a gut feeling that tells me there are situations where it's better to have a pilot in the seat than someone far removed from the situation trying to have a positive effect. Does the pilot itself no long add anything to the fight?

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jun 10 at 2015 5:05 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Wed, 10 Jun 2015 17:05:03 -0400

All future wars are future problems for which we try to create solutions for.

Response by Sgt Jeffrey Clish made Jun 10 at 2015 5:54 PM

Sgt Jeffrey Clish — Wed, 10 Jun 2015 17:54:37 -0400

Another example: Google Glass. Why was it created and where did it go?