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Defining the Problem

A problem well stated is half solved.

Wally Davi

The better the clarity around what the team is attempting to fix, the more efficientthey'll be in solving the problem, the solution will better 'fix' the issues, and the teamcan get back to executing the business versus fixing it.

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How to write clear & concise Problem Statement when usingproblem solving technique

Essentially the Problem Statementshould be a single phrasethat states the thing

and what about the thing that deviates from the desired state.

Kepner Tregoeuses the phrase OBJECT DEFECT.

The problem statementshould be

clear

concise

specific

factual

not a guess at cause (opinion; debatable)

A Problem Descriptionshould be given that provides salient details about

the Problem:

it's effectif known,

extent, timing(is it a change? if so, when started) if known,

where foundand where occurringif known, etc.

But this should be a brief description and it should not address possible

causes or solutions.

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Writing a problem statement

Brainstorming and coming up with ideas is stimulating and satisfying. The satisfaction

comes from finding good workable solutions to problems.

Therefore defining the problem clearly upfront can be a real aid tothe idea creation and problem solving that follows.

Defining a problem with a Problem Statement is common on academic circles and

within TQM and Six Sigma methodologies.

For Brainstorming however we need something shorter and simpler.

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STEP 1

Write down your problem or the current state.

Dont worry too much about quality at this point simply making a start is significant.

Next, expand on your problem by asking the following questions:

who does it affect / does not affect.

what does it effect / does not affect.

how does it effect / does not affect.

when is it a problem / is not a problem.

where is it a problem / is not a problem.

Now, re-write your problem statement based on those answers.

STEP 2

The Second Stepis the same as the first, but focuses on the Desired orFuture

State.

STEP 3

The Third Step is to combine your revised Problem or Current State and your

desired Future State into a single statement.

This might take a couple of attempts but stick with it. Finally, review your new problem

statement against the following criteria:

Focused on only one Problem.

One or two sentences long.

Does not suggest a Solution.

You should now have a concise and well balanced Problem Statement ready for abrainstormingsession.

It should be unambiguousand devoid of assumptions.

It will enable you or your group to focus in on the problem and work

toward solutionsthat truly fit.

The following diagram outlines the process:

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