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Creating Effective Problem Statements

A really succint problem statement

A well-written problem statement is a key component of any project charter. When the problem statement is
well-defined, it forms an excellent basis for action because anyone who reads it will know the following: exactly what
the problem is, the scope and magnitude of the problem, the actual impact to the organization thus far, and the
potential impact to the organization of not addressing the problem. When the problem statement is not well-written, it
will most likely lead to inaction or actions that do not properly address the problem with the result being that
mitigation of the problem is delayed.
A well-written problem / opportunity statement will have many of the following characteristics:
Be no more than 2 sentences long
Refer specifically to the identified Y measure under study and give actual values
Focus on observable symptoms related to the Y, not suspicions or assumptions
Address:
What is happening such that it is considered to be a problem
Where the problem is appearing
How long the problem has been occurring
The magnitude of the problem
The impact or potential impact of the problem on the business
The level of performance needed to avoid the potential impact
A poorly written problem / opportunity statement will have many of the following characteristics:
Be too broad
Assign blame
State an opinion about whats wrong
Describe the cause of the problem
Presuppose a solution
Describe several problems in one statement
Shown below is an example of a well-written problem statement. Below that is an example of a poorly written problem
statement. The differentiating characteristics of each are highlighted.

8/15/2013 7:21 PM

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A Well-Written Problem Statement

A Poorly-Written Problem Statement

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8/15/2013 7:21 PM