What is a problem statement in UX design?

A problem statement in UX design serves as a foundational element that articulates the specific user needs and challenges that the design aims to address. By clearly outlining the user's needs, it helps guide the design process and ensure that solutions are user-centered. The focus on understanding the problem from the user's perspective allows designers to create effective and relevant solutions that improve user experience.

In contrast to the other options, a problem statement is not a vague description of design goals, as clarity and specificity are essential for it to be effective. It does not involve analyzing market competition, which is more related to business strategy than user-centered design. Additionally, while project deadlines and milestones are important in project management, they do not contribute to understanding the UX challenges that need to be solved. Thus, a well-crafted problem statement is critical for aligning the design team's efforts with user needs and ensuring the project's success in improving user experiences.