Review

Problem & Hypothesis Statements Review

• Strong Problem Statements

  • Core Criteria:
    • “Human-centered”
    • “Broad enough for creative freedom”
    • “Narrow enough for practical solution”
  • Components:
    • User persona name
    • Characteristics description
    • Clear user need
    • Actionable insight (why)

• Statement Templates

  • Problem Format:
    • “[Name] is a [characteristics] who needs [need] because [insight]”
    • Example:

      “Anika is busy intern needing faster group coffee orders because individual orders waste time”

  • Hypothesis Format:
    • “If [action], then [outcome]”
    • Example:

      “If Anika uses app for group orders, then can get coffee quickly and easily”

• Statement Pair Example (Ali)

  • Problem:
    • Remote student
    • Needs table-placed orders
    • Because: fears losing spot
  • Hypothesis:
    • If: uses app for in-store orders
    • Then: employees deliver, keeping spot

• Review Checklist

  • Problem Focus:
    • Specific persona needs
    • Creative solution space
    • Practical achievability
  • Hypothesis Elements:
    • Clear solution action
    • Measurable outcomes
    • Builds on problem statement

Problem and hypothesis statements form the bridge between user research and design solutions. They transform user needs into actionable goals while maintaining focus on practical, achievable outcomes.