What is THE PROBLEM?

It is important to first identify the problem before we can identify a solution and then figure out how to accomplish that solution.  All problems are not created equally.  They fall within the simple to complex spectrum.  The more complex a problem is, the more steps or goals will be required to reach the solution.

   

Where does your problem fall in the spectrum?  

While many times a problem is quite obvious to the naked eye, if the problem falls in the complex end of the spectrum it may not seem so obvious.  I will use the "5 Why's" Method of finding the root problem.  This method is fairly simple.  State the obvious problem and then ask yourself "Why" 5 times.  This will get you to the root problem.