Wicked problems are the opposite of good problems. For good problems, the question, the allowed paths for solving the problem, as well as the goal to be reached are clearly defined. Examples of good problems are playing a game of chess or solving a mathematical equation. For wicked problems, the opposite is the case:

  • A definite problem definition is impossible and understanding the problem is concomitant with addressing it.
  • Each problem is unique, and they cannot be grouped into categories.
  • It is impossible to ever collect all the necessary information to address the problem.
  • They are not susceptible to exhaustive analysis.
  • There are no correct or wrong solutions, only good or bad ones.

The term wicked problem was coined by Rittel and Webber​1​. The term has been widely used since—including outside spatial planning. But it has also been controversially discussed, for example because of its negative connotation​2​. Consequently, other terms with similar meanings have been introduced to describe complex problems in spatial planning, for example:

  • Ill-defined problems​3​
  • Komplexe Schwerpunktaufgabe​4​
  • Komplexe Problemsituation​5​.

The above definition is based on these four sources.

An example for such complex problems is the development of a concept for the future development of a city, for example, Cologne in Germany:

Visualisation of the “komplexe Problemsituation” (wicked problem) of the process to develop a Masterplan for the inner city of Cologne​6​ – described here through the numerous unresolved conflicts and challenges that stakeholders see in this area.

References

  1. 1.
    Rittel HWJ, Webber MM. Dilemmas in a General Theory of Planning. Policy Sciences. 1973;4(2):155-169. Accessed August 3, 2023. https://www.jstor.org/stable/4531523
  2. 2.
    Lönngren J, van Poeck K. Wicked problems: a mapping review of the literature. International Journal of Sustainable Development & World Ecology. 2021;28(6):481-502. doi:10.1080/13504509.2020.1859415
  3. 3.
    Cross N. Designerly ways of knowing. Design Studies. 1982;3(4):221-227. doi:10.1016/0142-694X(82)90040-0
  4. 4.
    Borchard K, Akademie für Raumforschung und Landesplanung. Grundriss der Raumordnung und Raumentwicklung. Verl. der ARL; 2011:877.
  5. 5.
    Nollert M. Raumplanerisches Entwerfen. ETH Zurich; 2013. https://www.research-collection.ethz.ch/handle/20.500.11850/71036
  6. 6.
    AS&P. Städtebaulicher Masterplan Innenstadt Köln.; 2008.