---
id: "worksheets:exercise/heilmeier-catechism"
type: "Solving Public Problems worksheet"
title: "The Heilmeier Catechism"
url: "https://worksheets.solvingpublicproblems.org/exercise/heilmeier-catechism"
date: "2024-07-11"
summary: "As Heilmeier pointed out, it is important to have a clear view of what you are trying to do but be prepared to modify this view in light of new information."
source: "Solving Public Problems worksheets (worksheets.solvingpublicproblems.org), The GovLab and the Burnes Center for Social Change"
licence: "none stated"
---

# The Heilmeier Catechism

Exercise group: Defining a Public Problem · Recommended exercise

## About this worksheet

As Heilmeier pointed out, it is important to have a clear view of what you are trying to do but be prepared to modify this view in light of new information.

## Tips

Now consider what questions you would ask, if you were the boss or funder or politician. Anticipate those questions and write down your own answers to create a map of your project trajectory.

## Questions

1. What are you trying to do? Articulate your objectives using absolutely no jargon.
2. How is it done today, and what are the limits of current practice?
3. What is new in your approach and why do you think it will be successful?
4. Who cares? If you are successful, what difference will it make?
5. What are the risks?
6. How much will it cost?
7. How long will it take?
8. What are the midterm and final “exams” to check for success?

## Source

Solving Public Problems, Chapter 3. P. 68 Original: George H. Heilmeier, Defense Advanced Research Project Agency (DARPA)

## PDF version

https://directus.theburnescenter.org/assets/ac4e584c-f36b-458e-b843-213f4dcd154a

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Original page: https://worksheets.solvingpublicproblems.org/exercise/heilmeier-catechism · Licence: none stated