The first step is defining the problem and what the solution is intended to solve and to facilitate agreement on this   amongst all stakeholders.

  Deliverable:
   Comprehensive brief on what the project is (and what it is not) including a list of expectations, performance
       requirements and proposed benefits.

  Next we identify the ideal situation and solution assuming there are no obstacles or potential barriers to confine the   solution. Then reality is introduced and all potential barriers, restrictive parameters and obstacles are introduced to

  compress the ideal solution into what will ultimately be our suggested solution.

  Deliverable:
   List of restrictions and infrastructure and environmental governing parameters, risk profiles, suggested
      contingencies, impact and disruption analysis on other areas of business.