A STRUCTURED WORKSHOP APPROACH FOR PROBLEM ANALYSIS AND SOLUTION FINDING - AN EXAMPLE USING THE PROBLEMS OF BARLEY YELLOW DWARF VIRUS IN THE UK

The use of a structured workshop approach for problem analysis and the subsequent provision of solutions is introduced. The results of a wor kshop on the problems of barley yellow dwarf virus (BYDV) in the UK ar e presented to illustrate the methodology, with a suggested research a nd development strategy targetted at solutions. The workshop considere d the historical factors that have contributed to the present-day BYDV problem, the seasonal factors that influence the disease epidemiology and crop losses in any one year, the decisions concerning its control faced by the farmer, and the complex consequences of particular actio ns. The structured approach identified several areas where information is scarce or lacking, and provided a framework for establishing resea rch priorities. The proposed research and development strategy is desi gned to fill the information gaps and provide a basis for future optio ns and recommendations for the control of BYDV. The role of this appro ach for use in other crop pest problems is discussed. Copyright (C) 19 96 Elsevier Science Ltd