A template for solving wicked problems

Wicked engineering problems are the ones that are difficult to solve because of complex interdependences between the systems involved, and incomplete, inconsistent, information about the problem context. Wicked problems are dynamic and span many domains with complex legal, ethical, and societal aspects. Analysis of large data sets is at the core of understanding wicket problems. The high volume, high velocity, and high variety of information requires new ways of processing for decision making, insight discovery and process optimization. The ability, and necessity, to offload cognitive processing to computers fundamentally changes the engineering tool set. Cognitive processing by computer offers the ability to generate and test hypothesis of problem causes and solution consequences. Engineers need to understand how these tools work, how they can make problem solving easier, as well as the pitfalls of their use.