Reflection: Identifying the Best Solution

what is an ask?

Every advocacy effort needs an ask. An advocacy ask is the articulation of the solution to your problem, framed for the relevant decision-maker(s). 

An ask translates your research, context analysis, and identified solution into a concrete request directed at someone with the authority to act. Without an ask, advocacy can raise awareness, but it cannot drive change.

A strong ask answers three key questions:

• Who has the power to make this change?
• What exactly are you asking them to do?
• When should they do it?

An ask should be strategic, specific, and actionable. The clearer your request, the easier it is for decision-makers to respond, and for you to follow up and hold them accountable. One of the most effective tools for refining your ask is the SMART framework. This framework helps ensure that your request is clear, realistic, and actionable