PART I

Below are two example problem statements written by Joanne and Mike. Read each statement carefully. Joanne wants to create a project to help homeless people. Mike has a project to improve his tardiness at work.

Joannes problem statement:

The problem Im attempting to solve is why homeless people are homeless and sad. I want to study why they dont have money to buy a house and if employers are taking advantage of them. My end goal is to help homeless people make more money so they can buy a house and be happy. I will know I am successful when I see 10 fewer homeless people on the streets within a month after completing my project.

Mikes problem statement:

My boss thinks Im always late to work. I think I could do a little better. Success is when he stops bringing it up.

PART II

You are mentoring Joanne and Mike in the art of writing a problem statement. Your initial impressions are that Mike seems a little lazy and Joanne has a burning desire to help people. However, your experience tells you both these projects are doomed to fail before they even start. How would you help Mike and Joanne improve their problem statements?

Using the four questions as a guide, complete the following:

1. Show specifically how Joannes and Mikes current problem statement answers the four questions.
2. Identify what specifically needs to change in each problem statement to make them more achievable.
3. Rewrite each of their problem statements with correct problem statement principles.
4. Write SMART Goals for both Joanne and Mike.