John,

1. Does one look at problem through design patterns or look at design patterns
through a problem? IOW, do I sit down and describe/define the problem/situation first and then look at patterns for guidance in designing the solution/automation?

2. Can one become lost in an analogy that is too broad and essentially results in a shrug and "it depends." For example, I'm thinking still of the study group idea and would it make sense to put it in the context of designing an actual solution. Such as: I want you to give me an application that will describe Albuquerque's metropolitan transportation system so that, as a city planner, I can evaluate different ride-sharing programs, winter pollution alerts, highway projects.

Just some thoughts.