Design Thinking: Define

Define is the second step in the process of Design Thinking. It is also the most ambiguous stage. It is difficult for designers to go through the steps to define the problem. There is no one answer, but multiple interpretations that eventually lead to the discovery of the issue designers are trying to solve. In order to begin the define phase, one must take data from the earlier stages of empathy and make a set of hypotheses. However, once getting to this stage, the information gained is not definitive. Designers might have to revisit other stages and collect more data needed in order to define the problem. 

At this stage, in most cases, it can take longer to define the problem than it does to discover the solution. According to Jordan Roberts, Project Success, it is crucial to set up requirements before delving into the topic. One must think about all the factors that go into making their audience happy. In order to have meaningful requirements, designers must have validation and verification that they are answering the right questions correctly. 

Problem framing is also an important step within the define phase. It is essential to undergo problem framing because if it is glossed over, the wrong problem can be defined leading to bigger issues with the designer's audiences. According to Why Problem Framing is Important, designers should be on the same page when discussing the problem and focus on the root cause of the issue, not just the symptoms. Also, shifting one's frame of reference can spark imagination and creativity when defining the issue. Designers can also problem-frame by opening up to more options. This can be done by asking “why.” For example, according to How Reframing a Problem Unlocks Innovation, a teacher asked his students to build him a bridge. One student asked why and he responded “to get to the other side.” In this case, one doesn’t necessarily have to build a bridge, there are a plethora of options that can get him to the other side. This exemplifies the ideas of framing and how by asking more questions, more opportunities for innovation arise.  

There is a tool called problem definition that helps designers identify the right kind of problem they are trying to address. It provides them with different perspectives and angles to ensure they are looking at the problem with open eyes. According to DIY Toolkit, when partaking in this activity one can observe the importance of the problem they are trying to solve, who needs to be addressed, and possible hidden obstacles. 

Constructing a problem statement is one of the key elements of the define phase. It should be written as a question to ensure creativity when it comes to a possible solution. The statement should be actionable. Using active verbs can provide a sense of intent. According to Writing Effective Problem Statements, one component the statement should have is specificity, this will enable designers to develop the most solutions. It should also be human-focused instead of organization-focused. This will tend to the audience because it will fulfill their wants and needs. 

It is also extremely crucial how to develop a problem statement. Before creating the statement, one needs to understand that the statement will establish a focus on one goal, and alignment with other designers in achieving that goal. According to How to Build a Problem Statement, the first step is to identify the user who has the problem. Then, develop activities that they would do and take their perspective as to why they would perform these activities. Next, after selecting one activity the designer can come up with three steps that correspond with the action. They will then define obstacles and possible feelings the user can be having when encountering these hardships. The problem statement can now be made with specificity and context. This is specific because it deals with a certain user, and it provides context because it turns data into a story about the user which, in turn, provides more meaning.   

The define stage of Design Thinking aids designers in gathering ideas about different features and functions that eventually provide them with a solution. It can also help them establish a way for the users to resolve the problem on their own. It is essential that the collection of information is taken from the empathy phase and condensed into one place for further analysis as a whole. 

Overall the define phase is about moving from analysis to synthesis. Going from observing the wants and needs of users to capturing the important parts of what they collected is how the definition of a problem is formed. After this stage is when the real innovation is brought out in designers and solutions arise.