A problem well-stated is a problem half-solved.

– Charles Kettering

If you believe this, then it is better to initially use the time to define the problem than to work on the solution. Now this is counter-intuitive at startups because there is a bias towards actions and results. 

How can one get to a better description of the problem quickly? 

1. Ask 5 Whys

Invented by the Toyota Production System, 5 Whys is all about asking why about a statement and then upon getting an answer, asking why again. It’s a good technique for surfacing underlying reasons or the foundations of someone’s perspective. 

2. Explain the human or business impact in plain English

Jargon is confusing. As one of my professor always said – “tell me in verbs not nouns”. Simple language will help customers and stakeholders to participate better. They might even point out sub-problems or reframe the problem in their own words or suggest an alternate problem. 

3. Make it concrete and concise

To make it concrete, talk about the specifics that will help others understand and recollect the problem statement. Specifics should be sufficient to recall without overwhelming detail. For example, what’s the outcome we want, by when, and who is impacted. Do this with a 30 second message. 

So, what’s the problem?