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Research and DiscoveryP

Problem Statement

Definition

A concise articulation of the user problem a team is trying to solve, typically framed from the user's perspective. A good problem statement describes who is affected, what the problem is, and why it matters, without prescribing a solution. PMs use problem statements to align teams on the "why" before jumping to the "what" or "how."

Why It Matters for Product Managers

Understanding problem statement is critical for product managers because it directly influences how teams prioritize work, measure progress, and deliver value to users. PMs use problem statements to align teams on the "why" before jumping to the "what" or "how. Without a clear grasp of this concept, PMs risk making decisions based on assumptions rather than evidence, which can lead to wasted engineering effort and missed market opportunities.

How It Works in Practice

In practice, product teams apply this technique during the discovery phase of product development:

  • Plan — Define the research question and decide on the appropriate method, sample size, and timeline.
  • Recruit — Identify and schedule participants who represent the target user segment.
  • Execute — Conduct the research following the methodology, capturing both qualitative observations and quantitative data.
  • Synthesize — Analyze findings, identify patterns, and translate insights into actionable recommendations for the product team.

    • Effective use of problem statement prevents teams from building features based on assumptions and ensures that investment flows toward validated user needs.

    Common Pitfalls

  • Running the technique without a clear hypothesis or research question, which leads to unfocused results.
  • Relying on a single research method instead of triangulating with complementary approaches.
  • Letting stakeholder opinions override what the data and user feedback actually reveal.

    • Related Concepts

    To deepen your understanding, explore the related concept: Design Thinking.

    Related Terms

    Jobs to Be Done (JTBD)Discovery (Product Discovery)Design Thinking

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is problem statement in product management?+
    A concise articulation of the user problem a team is trying to solve, typically framed from the user's perspective. Product managers use this concept to make more informed decisions and deliver better outcomes for users and the business.
    When should a product team use problem statement?+
    Product teams should use problem statement during the discovery phase when they need to validate assumptions, understand user behavior, or test demand for a new feature. It is most effective when combined with complementary research methods to triangulate findings.
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