Lack of Clarity is Holding You Back

Better Problem Definition = Better Results

If you’re struggling to get improvement projects moving or find your team pulling in different directions, unclear problem definition is often to blame. Without a clear, shared understanding of what you’re solving, time, resources, and momentum is wasted.

Join PMI’s Mark Allison and Damion Albinson with Susannah Clarke for practical tools and techniques to define problems precisely, to align your team from the start, and set the stage for success. They cover how to:

  • Cut through confusion by identifying the real problem, not just symptoms
  • Apply tools like SIPOC and 5 Whys to uncover root causes and key stakeholders
  • Write problem statements that clarify purpose and unite your team

 

Turn clear problem definition into lasting improvement with our immersive, hands-on Agile Lean Six Sigma Green Belt programme.
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Lack of Clarity is Holding You Back

The Risk of Skipping Learning

Jumping straight to solutions without fully exploring the current state can leave problems undiscovered. Engaging stakeholders, studying processes, and separating distinct issues ensures improvement initiatives don’t result in wasted effort.

Defining Problems Without Assumptions

Performance issues often reveal themselves in the metrics we track every day. Before defining a problem, focus on what the numbers show, not what you believe the cause might be. Stripping assumptions from the problem statement creates clarity and a stronger foundation for improvement.

Validate Before You Solve

A potential problem doesn’t become a real improvement opportunity until you see the data. Assumptions can mislead solutions; what seems urgent may be minor, or what seems simple may be complex. Collecting evidence first ensures initiatives target the right issues and generate genuine impact.

Video Highlights:

  • Why Problem Definition Matters (06:22)

Exploring participants’ confidence in writing clear problem statements, highlighting common challenges in problem definition.

  • Defining a Problem: Closing the Gap (18:15)

Understanding what constitutes a problem, the concept of closing the gap, and the three main problem categories.

  • The Importance of Studying the Problem (22:40)

Emphasising the necessity of spending time to understand the problem thoroughly, referencing Einstein on the value of learning before acting.

  • Common Challenges and Risks (29:51)

Raising awareness of pitfalls like skipping steps, jumping to solutions, and the false economy of quick fixes.

  • Guidance: Writing a Well-Defined Problem Statement (39:10)

Sharing practical tips for creating problem statements that are simple, focused, and data-driven, supported by a structured template.

  • Summary and Key Takeaways (56:55)

Recapping actionable insights including focusing on clarity, data, and stakeholder engagement to drive better solutions.

 

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