How is the best way to gather information for creating a clear problem statement?

Gathering information for creating a clear problem statement is crucial in understanding the specific issues at hand. Engaging with the customer's office and maintenance staff provides direct insights from those who are most familiar with the day-to-day operations and challenges. These individuals have firsthand experience with the issues and can articulate the nuances and impact on their workflow.

By communicating with the staff, you can gain context that might not be captured in more abstract methods like online research or surveys. This approach encourages a deeper understanding of the problem, as staff members can provide specific examples, articulate their frustrations, and highlight the consequences of the issues they face.

This direct interaction often leads to clearer, more precise problem statements because it allows for immediate clarification and follow-up questions. Additionally, this approach fosters a collaborative environment where the stakeholders feel heard and invested in the resolution process.

While the other methods can supplement information gathering, relying on the insights of those directly impacted offers the most relevant and actionable data for formulating a problem statement.