A strong problem statement identifies who experiences a problem, what it is, its context, and why it requires action. It should use evidence and allow several possible design solutions.
What Should a Problem Statement Include?
In B2.1 The design process, the statement defines the design opportunity before ideas are generated. It converts research into an unmet need instead of proposing a product.
| Element | What to include |
|---|---|
| User | The specific target user or group affected |
| Context | Where or when the problem occurs |
| Need | What the user must do, improve, access, or experience |
| Evidence | Observations, interviews, surveys, or secondary research confirming the problem |
| Importance | Consequences of leaving it unresolved |
| Constraints | Essential limits including safety, cost, space, resources, or environmental conditions |
A useful structure is:
[Target user] experiences [specific problem] in [context] because [evidence or cause]. This results in [negative effect], creating a need for [required outcome].
For example:
Students who cycle to school struggle to store wet helmets securely because classroom storage is limited and poorly ventilated. Interviews show helmets are left on desks or floors, causing obstruction and discomfort. They need secure storage that allows helmets to dry.
This identifies the user, evidence, context, and outcome without specifying a helmet rack. Prescribing a solution too early restricts divergent thinking and exploration of alternatives.
A common misconception is that a problem statement is a design brief. The problem statement explains the need, the design brief summarizes the intended response, and a design specification later sets measurable requirements. Constraints should describe genuine boundaries, not arbitrary features chosen before ideation begins.
Exam Technique
If asked to formulate or justify a problem statement, link every claim to research evidence. Examiners expect a precise user, context, need, and justification; “people need better storage” is too vague.