During the Framing and Scoping process, which of the following is the first step for researchers to undertake?

Understanding the need is the foundational step in the Framing and Scoping process. This step involves gathering information to grasp the core problems, objectives, and requirements of the project. It sets the stage for deeper analysis and ensures that researchers are aligned with the context and expectations of stakeholders.

By thoroughly understanding the need, researchers can effectively identify what is critical to address, which informs subsequent steps such as articulating the opportunity for design. This step also helps in narrowing down potential areas of focus and ensuring that the project aligns with business goals. Without a clear understanding of the need, later stages could lead to misalignment and ineffective design solutions, highlighting the importance of this initial step in the research process.