Define the Problem
Learning Materials
To move forward from this step you must clearly define a problem.
Work through the following materials to help you confidently identify a problem worth solving
Explore a problem or opportunity from 5 angles. This tool will also help you to define the wider context and associated issues involved.
Useful for...
Getting a clear idea of who your target client / user / customer is — and how your idea can help them.
Useful for...
Exploring a problem from 5 angles and to define the wider context and associated issues involved.
Useful for...
Understanding the client and capturing knowledge about a client's behaviours and attitudes.
Useful for...
Defining your problem in one sentence with a simple framework. You will need a "How Might We" sentence throughout the 5-step process.
Additional Materials
Continue your learning journey with curated materials from around the web to help you craft your idea.
Please note: some websites may ask for your email registration to access. Accessing these tools is optional.
A "root cause analysis" technique. Dissect the problem and reveal its underlying causes quickly in 5 Whys.
Learn a new technique
3 simple steps to help you stop rushing to conclusions before clearly understanding the problem.
Read an article
Assess the size of a customer problem and determine if solving it could produce value for your business.
Read a tutorial
Understand what a need is and which customer needs are unmet.
Read an article
Hear the story of James Dyson, who had a revolutionary idea for a new vacuum cleaner in 1979.
Listen to a podcast
Explore the experiences of a client or someone who will be using what you might be creating.
Learn a new technique
Set yourself up for success with a clearly defined problem. Degreed access required.
Read a tutorial
