Define

The Define phase acts as a bridge between user understanding (Empathize) and solution generation (Ideate). Its theoretical basis lies in problem framing theory, which states that the way in which the problem is defined largely determines the solutions to be discovered.

For users, effective problem definition is particularly important as it focuses limited innovation resources on the most impactful challenges, creates alignment among team members and provides clear criteria for evaluating potential solutions. It also prevents resources from being wasted on solving symptoms rather than root causes and transforms abstract insights into concrete, actionable statements.

The Define phase involves analyzing empathy research, recognizing patterns and articulating the challenge in a way that inspires solution finding. The process typically involves synthesizing information, identifying patterns and insights, defining user needs, creating problem statements and validating the problem definition. During the Define phase, it is often beneficial for users to involve team members from different functional areas to bring diverse perspectives to the analysis process.

This tool collection helps you transform your customer insights into clear, actionable problem statements during the Define phase. It includes structured frameworks for synthesizing information, identifying patterns, and articulating challenges in ways that inspire innovative solutions. These tools enable SMEs to focus limited resources on the most impactful problems and create alignment across teams before moving to solution generation.