A problem statement clearly defines an issue to be addressed, often outlining its components as the problem itself, the proposed method of solution, and the purpose of the document addressing the problem.
A problem statement is a concise description of an issue that needs to be addressed by a project, research, or initiative. It serves as the foundation, guiding efforts towards a clear goal. It articulates the gap between the current state and the desired state.
According to one perspective, problem statements often consist of three key elements, providing a structured approach to defining and tackling challenges:
- The Problem Itself: This involves clearly articulating the issue, providing sufficient context to demonstrate its significance.
- The Method of Solving the Problem: This outlines the proposed approach or solution, often presented as a claim or a working thesis.
- The Purpose: This defines the objective and scope of the document being prepared to address the problem.
These elements collectively frame the issue, propose a way forward, and clarify the intent of the communication about the problem and its solution.
Components of a Problem Statement
Based on the described framework, the core components found in many problem statements are:
-
The Problem:
- What it is: A clear, specific description of the issue or gap.
- Context: Enough detail to explain why this problem matters and its impact.
- Importance: Establishes the significance and urgency of addressing the problem.
- Example: "Customers are abandoning their online shopping carts at the payment stage, resulting in a 15% loss in potential revenue over the last quarter."
-
The Method of Solving the Problem:
- What it is: The proposed approach, strategy, or research method to address the problem.
- Format: Often stated as a working thesis or a claim about the solution's potential.
- Role: Provides direction for the subsequent steps or research.
- Example: "Implementing a simplified, single-page checkout process is hypothesized to reduce cart abandonment by 10%."
-
The Purpose:
- What it is: The objective and defined scope of the document (e.g., report, proposal, research paper) that the problem statement introduces.
- Scope: Defines what the document will and will not cover.
- Objective: States what the document aims to achieve regarding the problem and proposed solution.
- Example: "The purpose of this report is to analyze current checkout flow data, detail the proposed single-page checkout implementation, and forecast its impact on conversion rates."
Structure and Clarity
Structuring these components clearly within a problem statement ensures that anyone reading it understands:
- What the core issue is.
- Why it's important to solve.
- How the issue is proposed to be tackled.
- What the related document aims to accomplish.
This structure provides a roadmap for projects, research, or reports, ensuring focus and alignment among stakeholders.
| Component | Description | Key Question Addressed |
|---|---|---|
| The Problem Itself | Clear, contextualized description of the issue and its importance. | What is the issue & why does it matter? |
| Method of Solving | Proposed approach, solution, or working thesis. | How will the issue be addressed? |
| Purpose of the Document | Objective and scope of the report, proposal, or study addressing the problem. | What will this document achieve? |
By clearly defining these elements, a problem statement becomes a powerful tool for initiating action and communication.
