What should a problem statement ultimately help to clarify?

A problem statement is a crucial component in the design process, serving to clearly define the specific issues or challenges that need to be addressed. It articulates the purpose behind a project and sets the stage for design decisions by outlining the goals that the project aims to achieve, as well as any constraints—such as budget, technology limitations, or timelines—that may impact the design solution.

By clarifying these goals and constraints, the problem statement ensures that all team members have a unified understanding of what the project seeks to accomplish. This alignment helps facilitate focused brainstorming, effective decision-making, and the development of design solutions that are both viable and relevant to the users' needs. Therefore, a well-crafted problem statement is key to guiding the design process towards successful outcomes.

Other choices may touch on important aspects of UX design, such as user demographics or team member roles, but they do not capture the primary purpose or necessity of a problem statement in directing the project toward its objectives.