Design 21: Social Design Network

brian, i think that as a starting point for your research, dealing with one "local" problem, even if it seems small or partial at the moment, is the key to really solve that certain problem. your project can always have phase 2 and 3. The circle you create now, your solution, will eventually grow bigger and include more problems related to the original thesis, and more solutions. I think you need to focus and narrow it down to a level that you have a potential user (you can even name him/her...) in front of your eyes and not the global problem. Hope i helped a bit...