Discovery and Problem AnalysisResource

Problem Statement

Describing the gap between current and desired states.

A problem statement describes the gap between the current and desired situation, who is affected and the evidence of impact. It frames investigation without prematurely prescribing a solution.

How to use this tool

  1. Describe the current situation

    Describe the current situation.

  2. Define the desired outcome

    Define the desired outcome.

  3. Quantify who is affected

    Identify who is affected and quantify the impact.

  4. Validate without a solution

    Validate the statement without embedding a preferred solution.

References & further reading

Winter, H. (2023). The Business Analysis Handbook: Techniques to Deliver Better Business Outcomes, 2nd ed. Kogan Page. ISBN 9781398610132.