The core difference is that the problem statement is the overall description of the issue and its related elements, while the context is a specific section within or following the problem definition that provides background and broader understanding.
Understanding Problem Statements
A problem statement is a formal document or section that clearly identifies and describes an issue, challenge, or gap that needs to be addressed. It is fundamental in various fields, from business and research to product development.
According to the reference provided, a definition [within the problem statement] begins with a clear issue description, stating the current situation and why this is a problem.
The Role of Context
Immediately following the core problem definition within a well-structured problem statement comes the context.
As the reference highlights, Context — next, it provides the problem's background, offering a broader understanding of the situation and its significance.
This background information helps stakeholders understand the environment in which the problem exists, its history, and why it is relevant or important to solve.
Key Differences
While context is an integral part of a comprehensive problem statement, they serve distinct purposes:
| Feature | Problem Statement (Overall) | Context (Part of Problem Statement) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Defines the overall issue, its impact, and goal. | Provides background, history, and broader significance. |
| Scope | Encompasses the problem definition, context, and sometimes goals/scope. | Focuses specifically on the setting and circumstances. |
| Content Focus | What the problem is, why it's important, and what success looks like. | The history leading to the problem, environmental factors, related issues. |
| Placement | The complete document or section. | Often follows the initial problem definition. |
Practical Application
Consider a business scenario where sales are declining.
- Problem Definition: States that quarterly sales have dropped by 15% year-over-year in the past two quarters, leading to a potential revenue shortfall.
- Context: Explains that this decline follows the entry of a new competitor into the market six months ago, a recent change in customer buying habits observed industry-wide, and internal data showing a decrease in customer retention rates over the same period.
In this example, the problem statement includes both the specific issue (15% sales drop) and the context (new competitor, changing habits, retention).
Elements often found in Context:
- Historical data or events
- Industry trends
- Relevant market conditions
- Organizational background
- Related initiatives or projects
Understanding this distinction helps in crafting clear, comprehensive problem statements that not only identify the core issue but also provide the necessary background for effective analysis and solution development.
