Problem-Solving Methodology Design on the Run

This paper discusses a risk analysis study which considered the best way to cross a river with a large diameter gas pipeline, one possibility being a bridge carrying a large diameter oil line. About 30 `riskateers' were involved, over a 3-month period, most of whom were engineers or economists with no risk analysis, O.R. or systems experience. A large number of interested parties were involved, with different perspectives. The paper stresses methodology design as an organizational vehicle, and the implications of designing problem-solving methodology in the midst of a problem-solving process.