What if you have an idea but no problem? The reverse problem definition method: working backward from the solution.
Date
Apr 6, 2026
Classification
- Startups
Planning Star / Strategic Planner
We share insights on startups and IR from an expert with experience ranging from pre-startup management to IPOs and IR consulting for listed companies. We aim to provide detailed tips that can be immediately put into practice in the field.
What if you thought of the solution first? Reverse Problem Definition Guide
#ProblemDefinition #PreStartupPackage #Ideation #StartupPlanning #CustomerValidation
🫑 3-Line Summary
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Coming up with solutions or technology ideas first is a natural process for founders and is not a flaw.
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By tracing back the current state's alternatives, pain points (behavioral evidence), and frequency and intensity, you can clearly identify the real problems inherent in the solution.
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Problems defined in reverse must be initially verified using external data such as statistical data or community research, and then further developed through customer interviews.
🥦 Insight
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How to Stop Mistaking Function for a Problem
Many aspiring entrepreneurs and service planners often mistake the lack of a solution, such as "no real-time notifications," for the problem. However, the real issue lies in the actual pain points users experience as a result, such as "missing information and financial loss."
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Getting the Right Fit for Government Support Programs
When writing documents for the Pre-Startup Package or Early Startup Package, it is common to get so caught up in the solution you created that you fail to persuade the judges 'why this business should be launched.' In such cases, utilizing the reverse tracing method introduced today can help you complete an objective business plan that resonates with the reviewers.
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Rapid market validation is the answer, rather than perfect definition.
Rather than spending time at a desk trying to create a perfect problem definition, startups need the flexibility to first formulate verifiable hypotheses and gauge market reactions through community or search volume analysis.
🥄 A spoonful of execution
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Write down one core feature of the item you are currently planning, and ask yourself, "If this feature didn't exist, what alternative behavior would people take right now?" The real problem lies hidden within the inconvenience of that alternative behavior.
—— View Original ——
"I already have something I want to make, so what's the problem?"
While mentoring startups, I frequently encounter founders like this. They have a clear idea of the service or product they want to implement, yet when asked, "What problem are you solving?", they get stuck at the top of their lungs. Or, they give a vague answer like, "Um... because it's inconvenient?"
It seems that many people are preparing for the Pre-Startup Package these days . However, when filling out the application, quite a few people get stuck at the part where they need to clearly define the 'problem they intend to solve . '
In particular, I often hear concerns from people who already have solution ideas but find it difficult to restructure them around the problem. So, I have put together this article to offer at least some help to those in this situation.
Many startup guides say, "Find the problem first."
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