Adaptation has two distinctly different phases: a problem phase and a solution phase. These two phases overlap and inform each other but have different needs in relation to knowledge, communication, framing and tool use. Although much has been written about the problems and solutions of adaptation there is little literature in adaptation that shows how process should be applied to them or what pathways can be used to navigate through them.

To date the predominant frameworks that have been used by adaptation practitioners undertaking adaptation have been risk based frameworks. These are useful but do not fully address the needs of practitioners, particularly during implementation where actions are dynamic and solutions often have uncertain outcomes. Niether do they fully address the complexities of introducing new knowledge and change into organisational and community structures.

The problem solution framework is an iterative process that has been developed through actively working with and observing adaptation practitioners over the last five years. It maps key stages of the process through the problem solution lens.  It was developed to help practitioners ascertain where they are in the process and what tools and approaches can be applied as a result. It incorporates aspects of risk, innovation, communication, change mangement and knowledge development and integration. It has been adapted for use as an economic framework in the NCCARF project Valuing Adaptation Under Rapid Change and is currently used as a tool to assist practitioners working in adaptation.