·3 min read
MVP Problem Statement: Define It Clearly
A vague problem leads to a vague product. Get crystal clear on what you are solving.
Problem Statement Formula
[Target user] struggles with [problem] when [context], which results in [negative outcome].
Good vs Bad Problem Statements
| Bad | Good |
|---|---|
| People need better communication | Remote teams waste 5 hours weekly searching for information in chat |
| Scheduling is hard | Freelancers lose clients because back-and-forth scheduling takes 3+ days |
| Analytics are confusing | Marketing managers cannot explain ROI to their CEO without spending hours in spreadsheets |
Questions to Clarify Your Problem
- •Who specifically has this problem?
- •How often does it occur?
- •What triggers it?
- •What are the consequences?
- •How much would they pay to solve it?
Validating the Problem
- •Can you find 10 people with this problem?
- •Are they actively trying to solve it?
- •Do they spend money on alternatives?
- •Is it a hair-on-fire problem or a nice-to-have?
Using Your Problem Statement
- •Every feature should tie back to it
- •Use it in your marketing copy
- •Test it in customer interviews
- •Update it as you learn
Fall in love with the problem, not your solution. The problem stays constant. Solutions can change.