Learn what's the best way to create a problem statement for problem solving, and how to use frameworks and tools to define and communicate your problem.

Creating a problem statement is like crafting a catchy headline. You pick the quirky issue you're itching to solve, set the stage with a clear scope (no audience yawning), and declare your superhero objectives. Quantify the problem's chaos or describe its epicness - drama is key! Dig into the roots, don your detective hat, and pinpoint causes like a champ. Wave to your target audience like a celeb on a float, using language even your dog understands. Get pals to critique your masterpiece, like an open mic night. Keep it tight – tweet, don't novel. Voila, problem declared, with a wink and jazz hands!

What's the best way to create a problem statement for problem solving?

Problem solving is a valuable skill that can help you overcome challenges and achieve your goals. However, before you can solve any problem, you need to define it clearly and concisely. A problem statement is a brief summary of the current situation, the desired outcome, and the gap between them. It helps you focus on the root cause of the problem and avoid wasting time and resources on irrelevant or superficial issues. In this article, you will learn what's the best way to create a problem statement for problem solving, and how to use some common frameworks and tools to guide you.

1 Why is a problem statement important?

A problem statement is important because it sets the direction and scope of your problem solving process. It helps you communicate the problem to others, such as stakeholders, team members, or clients, and gain their support and feedback. It also helps you measure your progress and success, as you can compare the actual results with the desired outcome. A good problem statement should be clear, specific, measurable, realistic, and relevant to your context and goals.

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Danson Musau

Aftersales & Technical Manager East Africa | Customer-centric, Service-driven, Growth-focused.
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Understand the problem, gather data, research, and talk to relevant stakeholders to gain a comprehensive understanding of the issue. Clearly define the boundaries of the problem, what is included, and what is excluded Use a smart-criteria to specify, relevant, measurable, achievable and give a time frame to solve the problem. Describe current state and highlight the impact and root cause. Avoid assumptions and use clear & concise language. Avoid technical terms that may not be understood by all sides. Share the problem statement to colleagues to review and give feedback. Consider the targeted audience and ensure its easily understandable by all stakeholders. Create a formal document that can be easily shared to your problem-solving channel

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2 How to create a problem statement?

There is no one-size-fits-all formula for creating a problem statement, but there are some general steps and guidelines that can help you. First, you need to gather information and data about the problem, such as its symptoms, causes, effects, and scope. You can use various methods, such as observation, interviews, surveys, or analysis, to collect and verify your information. Second, you need to synthesize your information and identify the key elements of the problem, such as who is affected, what is the impact, when and where does it occur, and why does it matter. You can use tools, such as the 5 Whys, the Fishbone Diagram, or the SWOT Analysis, to organize and analyze your information. Third, you need to write your problem statement using clear and concise language, and avoiding jargon, assumptions, or opinions. You can use templates, such as the SMART or the IDEAL model, to structure your problem statement and ensure that it covers the essential components.

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Eddie Brock, SPHR

Talent Acquisition Manager @ Alpha Inc. Hawaii | Military Veteran Recruiting | Strategic Sourcing | HR & Workforce Development | Navy Veteran
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Creating a problem statement is like crafting a catchy headline. You pick the quirky issue you're itching to solve, set the stage with a clear scope (no audience yawning), and declare your superhero objectives. Quantify the problem's chaos or describe its epicness - drama is key! Dig into the roots, don your detective hat, and pinpoint causes like a champ. Wave to your target audience like a celeb on a float, using language even your dog understands. Get pals to critique your masterpiece, like an open mic night. Keep it tight – tweet, don't novel. Voila, problem declared, with a wink and jazz hands!

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3 What is the SMART model?

The SMART model is a popular framework that can help you create a problem statement that is Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Specific means that your problem statement should describe the problem in detail and avoid ambiguity or generalization. Measurable means that your problem statement should quantify the problem and the desired outcome, and define how you will evaluate your success. Achievable means that your problem statement should be realistic and feasible, and consider the available resources and constraints. Relevant means that your problem statement should align with your vision, mission, and objectives, and address the needs and expectations of your target audience. Time-bound means that your problem statement should set a deadline or a timeframe for solving the problem and achieving the outcome.

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Dr. Troy Johnson PMP.

Sr. Leader fostering success through streamlining process, change, and project management. Leading teams with a servant leadership and solution-driven mindset.
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Defining a problem is not the issue, identifying the root cause of the issue is. Take the time to understand the problem. Once you understand it, ensure your statement includes an explanation of the root cause of the problem. Only then will your team be able to brainstorm possible solutions.

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4 What is the IDEAL model?

The IDEAL model is another framework that can help you create a problem statement that is Identify, Define, Explore, Act, and Look. Identify means that your problem statement should state the problem clearly and precisely, and differentiate it from other related or similar problems. Define means that your problem statement should specify the scope and boundaries of the problem, and explain its significance and urgency. Explore means that your problem statement should list the possible causes and effects of the problem, and the potential solutions and alternatives. Act means that your problem statement should propose a solution or a course of action that is based on evidence and logic, and that addresses the root cause of the problem. Look means that your problem statement should outline the expected results and benefits of the solution, and the criteria and methods for monitoring and evaluating its effectiveness.

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5 How to refine and validate your problem statement?

Once you have created your problem statement, you should not consider it as final or fixed. You should review and revise it regularly, as you may discover new information, insights, or perspectives that can improve your understanding of the problem and its solution. You should also validate your problem statement by testing its validity, accuracy, and relevance, and by seeking feedback from others, such as experts, peers, or users, who can offer different viewpoints and suggestions. A good problem statement should be flexible and adaptable, and reflect the changing and evolving nature of the problem and its context.

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6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Amaldev Menon

Commercial Manager | Offshore & Marine Logistics | Chartering | Strategic Growth Specialist
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When creating a statement for problem-solving, it is crucial to be clear, concise, and focused. I have detailed my practice for this 1. Identify the problem 2. Gather information 3. Analyze root causes 4. Set clear objectives 5. Generate potential solutions by Brainstorm various ideas and alternatives to tackle the problem 6. Evaluate options 7. Develop an action plan 8. Communicate effectively 9. Monitor progress 10.Reflect and learn

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What's the best way to create a problem statement for problem solving?

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1 Why is a problem statement important?

2 How to create a problem statement?

3 What is the SMART model?

4 What is the IDEAL model?

5 How to refine and validate your problem statement?

6 Here’s what else to consider

Problem Solving

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What's the best way to create a problem statement for problem solving?

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3

4

5

6

1 Why is a problem statement important?

2 How to create a problem statement?

3 What is the SMART model?

4 What is the IDEAL model?

5 How to refine and validate your problem statement?

6 Here’s what else to consider

Problem Solving

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