How to Define a Problem

Defining a problem is the first and most crucial step in solving it. If the problem is not clearly defined, it’s impossible to make effective decisions, let alone produce excellent products and solutions. As Einstein said:

Posing a problem is more important than solving one.

What is a Problem?

A problem is essentially a contradiction or mismatch between things. It has the following characteristics:

1. Universality
   • Problems are everywhere; they are a universal phenomenon in the objective world.
2. Fluidity
   • Problems are not static; they change with time and environment. A current problem may no longer be a problem in the future, or it may evolve into a new one.
   • The key aspects of a problem differ at various stages, and metrics can reflect these dynamic changes.
3. Self-Containment
   • A problem usually exists within a larger system of problems and can often be broken down into multiple sub-problems. It is crucial to select problems that are suitable and solvable.
4. Measurability
   • The severity of a problem can be quantified through data, metrics, and other means, which helps us better understand the problem.
5. Interrelatedness
   • Problems may be interrelated or have causal relationships. It’s necessary to consider their fundamental propositions from a holistic perspective to avoid looking at them in isolation.

How to View/Discover Problems?

Discovering problems is a systematic process that requires analysis and thinking from multiple dimensions. Here is a basic framework for discovering problems:

Core Concepts

• Every noun has a structure.
• Every verb has a process.
• Every adjective is measurable.

Steps to Discover Problems

1. Phenomenon/New Concept (Structure)
   • Start with an observed phenomenon or a new concept and analyze the underlying structure and logic.
   • Think: What is the essence of this phenomenon? What are its constituent elements?
2. Side Effects of Existing Solutions & Multi-dimensional Thinking (Insight, History)
   • Analyze the limitations and side effects of current solutions.
   • Draw on historical experience and combine multi-dimensional perspectives (e.g., technological, economic, social) to uncover deeper insights.
3. Organize Metrics (Measure the Severity of the Problem, Present)
   • Define and organize key metrics to measure the severity and scope of the problem’s impact.
   • Metrics can help us clearly understand the current state of the problem and provide a basis for subsequent decisions.
4. Discover Opportunities (Essence)
   • Look for potential opportunities within the problem to find its essence and core pain points.
   • Think: What is the underlying need behind this problem? How can it be transformed into an innovation?
5. Planning (Future)
   • Based on the understanding and analysis of the problem, develop a solution or improvement plan.
   • The plan should be forward-looking to ensure it is proactive and sustainable.

Summary

Defining a problem is the prerequisite for solving it. Only by clearly defining the problem can we make the right decisions and take effective action. By understanding the characteristics and essence of problems and applying a systematic way of thinking, we can better discover, analyze, and ultimately solve them. Remember: A problem is not an obstacle, but a starting point for innovation and progress.

References

• Paul Graham — How to Do Great Work — On finding important problems to work on
• The Art of Problem Solving — Richard Hamming (YouTube) — Hamming’s famous talk on choosing important problems
• First Principles Thinking — Farnam Street — Guide to breaking down problems to their fundamental truths