By clearly identifying and articulating the user’s problem before designing solutions, we ensure that our efforts are focused on addressing real user needs. This approach not only guides our decision-making but also enhances the overall effectiveness and impact of our solutions.
This can happen at any point from procurement to deciding when to end of life a product.
Prioritizing technology over user experience is a key reason for digital failures.
- Harvard Business Review
Why define the problem first?
- User-centred design: By starting with a clear definition of the problem, we place the user at the centre of our design process. This ensures that our solutions are tailored to meet the specific needs and challenges faced by our users, leading to more intuitive and user-friendly products
- Informed decision making: A well-defined problem provides a solid foundation for making informed decisions throughout the project lifecycle. It helps to prioritise features, allocate resources effectively, and avoid unnecessary rework
- Collaboration and alignment: Clearly articulating the problem fosters collaboration and alignment among team members. It ensures that everyone is working towards a common goal and understands the user’s needs and expectations
- Efficiency and effectiveness: Defining the problem first helps us avoid the pitfalls of jumping to solutions prematurely. It allows us to explore various approaches and select the most effective one, ultimately saving time and resources
How to define the problem first
- Understand the context: Begin by gathering as much information as possible about the context in which the problem exists. This includes understanding the users, their environment, and any constraints or limitations they face. Conduct user research, interviews, and observations to get a comprehensive view of the situation.
- Identify the problems: Clearly identify the problem by listening to all perspectives and reaching a consensus. Use techniques like the 5 Whys and 5W1H (Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How) to interrogate the problem and understand its core
- Draft a problem statement: Create a problem statement that describe the issues. This statement should be clear and specific, outlining the problem without suggesting any solutions.
- Define the ideal state: Determine the ideal state or goal you are aiming to achieve. This helps in setting clear objectives and targets for the project.
- Collaborate: Involve a range of people to gather ideas and perspectives on how to address the problem. This collaborative approach ensures that all relevant viewpoints are considered
- Refine the problem statement: Based on the insights gathered, refine the problem statement to ensure it accurately reflects the issue and its causes. This statement will guide the subsequent stages of the project
