An important concept within TRIZ is that someone, somewhere, has already solved your current problem. In other words, they have “been there, done that.” Or course, the problem has to be clearly stated, in a generic sense, to enable the recognition of existing valid solutions.

TRIZ is not alone in recognizing this need. “Stating the problem clearly” was recognized by the formulators of the Six Sigma structure when they developed the DMAIC methodology. Apparently they recognized that people often start working on a solution before they have even defined the problem. This is perhaps because of a bias toward a preconceived solution. The “define” stage of the DMAIC problem-solving approach recognizes that, to get to a valid solution, the problem must be stated clearly, simply, and concisely. Incorrect problem definition leads to useless or ineffective “solutions,” which can lead to a considerable amount of time wasted in solving the wrong problem.

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