Problem (Opportunity)
Statement
Why Use It
A good problem statement describes in
specific, concrete terms the exact nature of the problem as it exists right
now. Since the seeds of the solution are
buried within the problem statement, it is essential to have it correctly and
clearly stated. An unclear or vague
problem/opportunity statement wastes time by developing ideas and finding
solutions to the wrong problem. Note:
The general term “Problem” can be characterized as a Problem, Opportunity,
Challenge, or Issue (see next page).
How To Use It: If you are unclear as to the exact
nature of the situation to be addressed, use the template below to rewrite the
initial statement of the situation in a variety of ways and help identify the
most accurate statement.
Problem Statement
Template
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Initial
Problem/Opportunity Statement |
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Restate
the Problem Simply
re-write the problem in several different ways. |
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Restate the problem by
changing key words (use synonyms and antonyms). |
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“Eyes-of-the-beholder”
Problem To
gain a perspective on how others view the problem, re-write it from their
eyes. |
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State the problem from the
‘eyes’ of other people involved (not involved) with it. |
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State the problem from the
‘eyes’ of a person who holds the opposite viewpoint. |
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Reframe
the Problem Look
at the problem within different contexts. |
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Reframe the problem in
more general/broader terms or in more specific/sub-problem terms. |
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Reframe the problem by
making it worse (better). |
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Reframe the problem as it
might look in 1-3 years from now. |
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Final Problem Statement (if
different from original). |
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