Assumptive Problem Statements -

Aryan Thite
6 min readAug 22, 2024

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What is a problem statement ?

A problem statement in UX research is a clear and short description of a user’s problem or frustration that needs to be fixed when creating a product. It helps designers understand what the issue is, stay focused on solving it, and come up with ideas for solutions. It also guides how the product should work to give users a better experience.

Problem statements are crucial because they clearly define the user’s pain points, guiding the design and development process. They help focus efforts on solving the right issues, foster creativity in finding solutions, and ensure that the final product meets user needs effectively, leading to a better user experience.

1. Urban Traffic Congestion App

Problem Statement: Major cities worldwide are grappling with severe traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. This not only causes delays but also contributes to increased air pollution and significant stress among commuters.

Why It Matters: Traffic jams aren’t just a nuisance; they represent a huge waste of time and resources. The environmental impact, combined with the mental toll on daily commuters, makes this a problem that needs immediate attention.

Target Audience:

  • Urban commuters who face daily traffic jams, including office-goers, students, and families.

Objective:

  • To reduce commute time, minimize stress, and decrease environmental impact by providing efficient traffic management and route optimization.

Key Features:

  • Real-time traffic updates and congestion alerts.
  • AI-driven route optimization with alternative transportation options.
  • Carpooling and ride-sharing integration to reduce vehicle numbers.
  • Environmental impact tracking to encourage eco-friendly commuting choices.

2. Plastic Waste Management App

Problem Statement: Plastic waste is becoming a global crisis, accumulating in our oceans and landfills. This not only harms wildlife but also contributes to long-term environmental degradation.

Why It Matters: Plastic pollution affects every corner of our planet, posing risks to marine life, disrupting ecosystems, and threatening human health. Reducing plastic waste is crucial for our environment and future generations.

Target Audience:

  • Environmentally conscious individuals, community groups, and organizations committed to reducing plastic waste.

Objective:

  • To promote plastic waste reduction, enhance recycling efforts, and raise awareness about the impact of plastic on the environment.

Key Features:

  • Local recycling center locator with pickup scheduling.
  • Educational content on reducing plastic usage and alternatives.
  • Community challenges and rewards for plastic waste reduction.
  • Tracking and reporting on personal and community-level plastic waste reduction progress.

3. Neurodivergent Support and Awareness App

Problem Statement: Neurodivergent individuals, such as those with autism or ADHD, often face challenges in accessing personalized resources and community support. This can lead to difficulties in managing daily life and feeling understood by society.

Why It Matters: Promoting inclusivity and understanding for neurodivergent individuals is crucial for their well-being and for fostering a more inclusive society. With the right support, these individuals can thrive and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Target Audience:

  • Neurodivergent individuals, their families, educators, and employers seeking to better understand and support neurodiversity.

Objective:

  • To empower neurodivergent individuals by providing tailored resources, fostering community support, and raising awareness about neurodiversity.

Key Features:

  • Personalized tools and resources for managing daily routines, learning, and work environments.
  • Mental health support tailored to neurodivergent needs, including mindfulness exercises and stress-relief techniques.
  • Educational content and awareness campaigns to reduce stigma and promote neurodiversity.
  • Community forums for sharing experiences, tips, and peer support.

4. Cybersecurity Threats App

Problem Statement: With the rise of technology, cybersecurity threats are becoming more frequent and sophisticated. Data breaches and cyber-attacks pose significant risks to individuals and businesses alike, leading to financial losses and compromised personal information.

Why It Matters: In today’s digital age, protecting our data is more important than ever. A single cyber attack can have devastating consequences, making it essential to have robust cybersecurity measures in place.

Target Audience:

  • Individuals and businesses concerned about cybersecurity, including those with limited technical expertise.

Objective:

  • To protect personal and business data from cyber threats by offering easy-to-use cybersecurity tools and education.

Key Features:

  • Real-time alerts and notifications about potential cyber threats.
  • Data encryption and secure storage solutions.
  • Educational content on best practices for online security.
  • Tools for monitoring and managing digital footprints.

5. Affordable Housing App

Problem Statement: Housing prices in urban areas are skyrocketing, making it increasingly difficult for low-income families and young professionals to find affordable living spaces. This leads to homelessness and significant financial strain on families.

Why It Matters: Affordable housing is a fundamental human need. Without it, individuals and families are at risk of homelessness, which can have far-reaching social and economic consequences.

Target Audience:

  • Low-income families, young professionals, and individuals searching for affordable housing options in urban areas.

Objective:

  • To make affordable housing more accessible by connecting users with budget-friendly housing options and financial resources.

Key Features:

  • Search engine for affordable housing listings with customizable filters.
  • Financial planning tools and housing affordability calculators.
  • Resources and guides on housing assistance programs.
  • Community forums for sharing tips and advice on affordable living.

My Chosen Problem Statement -

After reflecting on these five challenges, I’ve decided to move ahead on Neurodivergent Support and Awareness as my topic of focus.

The lack of understanding and resources for neurodivergent individuals is a pressing issue that affects many aspects of life, from education and employment to social interactions. With my app, I aim to create a platform that not only provides support but also fosters a community where neurodivergent individuals can feel seen, heard, and valued.

This idea revolves around developing an app that will provide personalized resources, mental health support, and community connections for neurodivergent individuals. While the other issues are critical, this app addresses a gap in support and understanding for neurodivergent individuals, aiming to foster inclusivity and improve their quality of life. This concept has the potential to bring meaningful change, making it a compelling choice for further development.

Conclusion -

In a world filled with complex challenges, finding the right problem to solve is the first step toward creating impactful solutions. After looking into important topics including affordable housing, plastic waste, cybersecurity, and urban traffic congestion, I’ve decided to concentrate on creating a solution for neurodivergent support.

This concept is a commitment to promoting tolerance, understanding, and empowerment for those who identify as neurodivergent rather than just a project. This program has the potential to significantly impact many lives by filling a resource and community support vacuum, transforming a struggle into a chance for positive change. I’m eager to explore this idea further as I go along, gathering a lot of data and honing the solution to make sure it satisfies the needs of its consumers. Watch this space for updates as this concept develops into a real instrument for inclusion and empowerment.

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Aryan Thite
Aryan Thite

Written by Aryan Thite

Designer and storyteller with expertise in graphic design, UI/UX, and video editing sharing insights on creativity, user-centered design, and digital innovation

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