5 W’s Problem Framing
activities for problem-solving
Free problem-solving activities, you will acquire new ways of working to solve your challenges. You will discover techniques to investigate, define, and frame your problems, helping you better understand and deal with them.
An activity to improve your communication.Why try the 5 W’s Problem Framing Activity?
Are you looking for a new way of working to dive deeper into problem analysis?
Activity Objective
The 5W's Problem Framing Activity uses project data to answer the 5W's questions and create a clear problem statement for effective problem-solving.
Templates
Number of Players
5Ws Problem Framing activity can be done alone or in a group for any team size.
Activity Duration
30-60 minutes
Instructions
Identify WHO and the target user groups that are affected by the problem. Consider demographics, roles, and personas.
WHAT is the desired outcome for your users? What do they want to achieve or resolve?
Explore the WHERE aspect. Where does the problem happen? Is it in a specific place or situation?
Dive into the WHY aspect. Identify WHY IT MATTERS and the impact of solving the problem
Finally, address the WHEN aspect. Reflect on the timeline or frequency the problem occurs or becomes evident.
Based on the answers to the 5W's questions, construct a concise Problem Statement in the following format:
Our (Who) has the problem that (What) when (Where).
Our solution should deliver (Why) because (Why it matters).
Check out our blog for reflection questions for teams.
Agenda Example
Introduction and explanation of the activity (5 minutes)
Discussion and exploration of the Who, What, Where, Why, and When aspects (20 minutes)
Constructing the Problem Statement based on the answers (10 minutes)
Sharing and reflecting on the Problem Statements (10 minutes)
Wrap-up and conclusion (5 minutes)
Check out our blog for planning meetings and workshops.
Script & Talk Track
Welcome, everyone, to the 5W's Problem Framing Activity. Today, we will dive deeper into our problem analysis by answering five key questions: Who, What, Where, Why, and When. By exploring these aspects, we can develop a comprehensive problem statement that sets the stage for effective problem-solving. Let's begin.
Great job! Now, let's go through each of the 5W's questions step-by-step to construct a concise Problem Statement. Remember to use the following format: "Our (Who) has the problem that (What) when (Where). Our solution should deliver (Why) because (Why it matters)."
Lets get started with the first prompt. Identify WHO and the target user groups that are affected by the problem. Consider demographics, roles, and personas. What can you tell us about the specific users experiencing this problem?
Excellent! Let's move on to the next question. WHAT is the desired outcome for your users? What do they want to achieve or resolve? Think about the ultimate goal or result that your users are expecting.
Wonderful! Let's proceed to the next aspect. Explore the WHERE aspect. Where does the problem happen? Is it in a specific place or situation? Identify the context or location where the problem arises.
Great insights! Let's continue to the next question. Dive into the WHY aspect. Identify the benefits and impact of solving the problem for users and the business. Why is it important to address this problem? What value will be created for both users and the business?
Excellent points! Now, let's move on to the final question. Finally, address the WHEN aspect. Reflect on the timeline or frequency when the problem occurs or becomes evident. Consider when and how often the problem manifests itself.
Fantastic job, everyone! Based on the answers to the 5W's questions, let's construct a concise Problem Statement using the format: "Our (Who) has the problem that (What) when (Where). Our solution should deliver (Why) because (Why it matters)."
Thank you all for your active participation. Through this activity, we have gained valuable insights and developed clear problem statements. Remember, a well-defined problem statement is essential for effective problem-solving and innovation. Keep these statements as a reference point as we progress in our journey. Well done!