Problem definition
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This article is part of the Bachelor design guide; the original version can be found at page 94. |
Contents |
What is a problem definition?
What is a problem? What does a problem definition consist of, and how do goals and objectives fit in? A problem has always to do with discontentment about a certain situation. Someone who is perfectly happy does not have a problem. Contentment is a relative concept. Consequently problems also have a relative nature. What is a (big) problem for one person, does not have to be a (big) problem for someone else.
An expected situation in the future does not have to be accepted. One can try to do something about it, by acting. For defining a problem this implies that it is not sufficient to describe the existing state. Therefore, we speak consciously of the situation someone is or is not content with. A description of the situation is therefore a description of a state plus the relevant causal model(s), including the assumed patterns of behaviour of the people and organizations involved. A situation is only a problem if the problem-owner wishes to, and want to do something about it. This implies that a situation must be conceivable that is more desirable than the present one: the goal situation. The existing situation, however, can also be formulated in such a manner that a problem does arise.
When can you make a problem definition?
A problem definition is usually set up at the end of the problem analysis phase.
How to make a problem definition?
Starting points
The starting point of a problem definition is the information gathered in the problem analysis stage. The different aspects surrounding the design problem have been analysed and should be taken into account in the problem definition.
Expected outcome
A structured description of the design problem, with the goal of creating and explicit statement on the problem and possibly the direction of idea generation. Also, a problem definition clearly written down provides for a shared understanding of the problem and its relevant aspects.
Possible procedure
Answering the following aid in creating a problem definition:
- What is the problem?
- Who has the problem?
- What are the goals?
- What are the side-effects to be avoided?
- Which actions are admissible?
Literature
- N. Roozenburg and E. Eekels (1995) Product Design: Fundamentals and Methods, Lemma, Utrecht.
