3.1 Clarifying the Initial Problem Statement

Question 1

How do design projects begin?

Answer 1

Design projects begin:

• When a client sets out a problem to be solved.
• Typically with a verbal problem statement that identifies a gadget that will appeal to certain markets.

Question 2

Describe a Problem Statement.

Answer 2

Problem Statements:

• Communicates someone’s idea of what is the problem.
• May initially be short.
• May take a longer form.
• May contain errors, show biases, or imply solutions.

Question 3

What are some flaws of problem statements?

Answer 3

Problem statements can have:

• Errors
• Biases
• Implied solutions

Question 4

What are some errors associated with problem statements?

Answer 4

Errors associated with problem statements can include:

• incorrect information
• faulty data
• incomplete data
• simple mistakes regarding the nature of the problem

Question 5

What are implied solutions in problem statements?

Answer 5

Implied solutions are:

A client’s best guess at the answer. These frequently appear in problem statements.

Question 6

What are biases in problem statements?

Answer 6

Biases in problem statements are:

Presumptions about the situation. These biases may be inaccurate…

if the client or the users fail to fully grasp the entire situation.