Question

§What is problem definition?

§How can designers use problem definition to develop better ideas and solutions?

§What’s your favorite technique for problem definition? Why?

§If the problem is not well-defined in the design thinking process, what can happen?

Answer 1

Problem Definition- Problem definition is the way in which any issues are stated which can be understood easily by all the stakeholders.

Designers can use problem statement to exactly know what the problem is and where the issue lies which can be solved. It also clear the different understanding of the same issue among various participants. This clarity leads to better solutions from the participants. The core issue can be understood better and addressed better.

The favourite technique of problem statement is the Socratic technique or critical questioning technique where specific questions are asked to define the problems. These questions are Where did the problem happen, when did it occur first etc.

If the problem is not well defined in the design thinking process, then the stakeholders will not focus on the real problem but will find solutions which will solve the problem completely. The solution will be corrupted and will to solve the issue entirely. Since the definition is wrong, the understanding of the problem, will be wrong and so will be the ways and techniques to solve the problem and finally the solution will also be incorrect. It will not address the core issues.