Starting with a Problem:
The First Step to Meaningful Innovation

At the eHub, we begin entrepreneurial explorations by searching for a problem to solve. In the world of startups, the allure of creating an innovative product often overshadows a more crucial aspect of launching a venture—identifying a real problem.
The Importance of Identifying Real Problems
Every problem holds the potential for innovation. By embracing challenges as opportunities, entrepreneurs can unlock new markets and create significant value. Encouraging this mindset shift is key to fostering a culture of innovation and resilience.
Starting with a problem isn’t just a method; it’s a pathway to creating businesses that offer lasting value and impact. This approach, known as “problem-first” entrepreneurship, sets the foundation for sustainable and successful ventures.
By understanding the significance of identifying real problems, entrepreneurs can more effectively transform these challenges into viable opportunities. This process not only fosters innovation but also empowers individuals to create impactful solutions that resonate with users.
Transforming Problems into Opportunities
Everyone has experienced having a problem and also solving one. We leverage that innate ability, empowering our students to transform challenges into opportunities by identifying significant and pervasive problems. Uber, for example, was born out of personal frustrations with existing transportation options. These companies succeeded because they solved real problems that affected a large number of people.
Human-Centered Design For Problem Solvers
At the heart of our approach is human-centered design, which ensures solutions genuinely meet user needs. This iterative process involves empathizing with users, defining clear needs, brainstorming potential solutions, prototyping, and rigorous testing. The global success of companies like IDEO with this methodology underscores its effectiveness in creating practical and innovative solutions.
Iterative and Evidence-Based Approaches
Successful problem-solving involves a cycle of hypothesizing, testing, learning, and iterating. This approach helps entrepreneurs refine their understanding of the problem and develop effective solutions. The concept of the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) plays a crucial role here, allowing founders to test their hypotheses with minimal resources efficiently.
Methodologies and Tools
Identifying the right problem requires more than intuition—it demands a strategic approach. Entrepreneurs can significantly enhance their problem-identification process using a variety of methods and tools:
- Customer Interviews: Engage directly with potential users to uncover their specific pain points and challenges. This firsthand insight is invaluable for defining problems that are both real and deeply felt.
- Market Research: Investigate existing solutions and market dynamics to understand where gaps and opportunities lie. This helps ensure that the problem you choose to solve is relevant and has a market demand.
- Problem Tree Analysis: Use this tool to break down broad challenges into specific, actionable problems. It helps clarify the scope and scale of what you’re tackling, making it easier to focus your efforts.
- Root Cause Analysis: Dive deeper into understanding why a problem exists by identifying its root causes. This can involve techniques like the Five Whys or the Ishikawa (Fishbone) Diagram, which help trace a problem back to its origins.
- Impact Analysis: Assess the potential effects and implications of a problem to better understand its importance and urgency. This analysis can guide prioritization and resource allocation to ensure effective problem-solving.
How This Applies To You
Consider the problems you encounter daily and how they could spark your next venture. By focusing on real issues, you have the potential to develop solutions that resonate deeply with users and create lasting impact. At eHub, we encourage students to harness their problem-solving skills and embrace the opportunity to innovate.
Unlock Your Problem-Solving Potential with the eHub
At the eHub, we offer a supportive environment for students from all disciplines to transform challenges into opportunities. Our specialized entrepreneurship practice opportunities, mentorship programs, and networking events are designed to equip you with the tools and guidance needed to develop your business ideas. Join our diverse community to collaborate with peers, connect with industry leaders, and access the resources necessary to drive your entrepreneurship journey forward.
Embrace Your Intuition to Innovate
Starting with a problem ensures that your entrepreneurship efforts are not only innovative but also essential. This approach helps you craft solutions that truly meet the needs of your audience and endure over time.
Remember, every problem is an invitation to innovate. Embrace it with the support of the eHub, and let us help you turn your insights into meaningful solutions that make a difference

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