The need for a real-world driving problem to guide technology development has long been recognised. However, this does not guarantee the identification of requirements for technology development. This paper argues that a more systematic approach is needed for choosing and making best use of a driving problem for CVE technology. The method consists of identifying the stakeholders in the technology development project. A series of issues must then be addressed: choice of problem area, choice of application, choice of research approach, design of the application, ensuring use by real users, choice of method of study, and identification of technology requirements. The method is illustrated by considering the development of the Deva CVE system with an art-based application and with an educational application.