Learning Targets
- Write a problem statement that names the user, need, and context.
- Separate criteria from constraints.
- Create a design brief that guides concept development.
IED Unit 5 • Lesson 5.3
Problem Statement, Criteria, Constraints, and Design Brief
Focus question: How do engineers turn user needs into a clear design problem?
Your lesson guide
Objective
Write a problem statement that names the user, need, and context. Separate criteria from constraints. Create a design brief that guides concept development.
Materials
For the online work: a browser and your engineering notebook. Follow the activity’s materials list for any physical build, and get teacher approval before using equipment.
Plan your time
Suggested work block: 45–60 minutes. Physical builds and projects may span several classes; follow your teacher’s schedule.
Mission Briefing
Today’s Plan
Use this page with the lesson presentation, your engineering notebook, and the tools or evidence assigned for Write the Capstone Design Brief.
Success Looks Like
You can write a clear problem statement and build a design brief using criteria and constraints.
LaunchLearnApplyCheckSubmit
Opening Prompt
How do engineers turn user needs into a clear design problem?
Connect your response to the decision, evidence, or quality standard required for Write the Capstone Design Brief.
Reveal: useful engineering move
This lesson is ready to move forward when the evidence meets this standard: The criteria can be tested and the constraints describe genuine project limits.
Core Skill
What We Are Practicing
A problem statement explains the need without locking into one solution too early.
Criteria describe what success should look like.
Constraints define the limits the design must follow.
Your Task
Write the Capstone Design Brief
Translate stakeholder evidence into a focused problem statement with measurable criteria and realistic constraints.
- Identify the user, context, and current problem.
- Write a problem statement that does not prescribe one solution.
- Create measurable success criteria from the user needs.
- List constraints and complete the design brief.
Quality check: The criteria can be tested and the constraints describe genuine project limits.
Lesson Interactive
Build a Clear Design Brief
Separate the problem statement, measurable criteria, and non-negotiable constraints.
| Brief element | Classification |
|---|---|
| Ground technicians need a faster, glove-friendly way to secure the panel during outdoor inspections. | |
| The prototype must be operable in 10 seconds or less. | |
| The design must fit within the existing 80 mm mounting area. | |
| At least four of five users should rate the grip comfortable. |
A problem statement identifies the user, need, and context without prescribing the solution.
What You Will Submit
Capstone Design Brief
Submission standard: The criteria can be tested and the constraints describe genuine project limits.
Resources
Lesson Resources
Lesson 5.3 PowerPoint
Use the lesson slides for guided practice, interactive checks, and the exit ticket.
Introduction to Engineering Design
Return to the IED course hub for units, resources, certifications, and current course information.
Build your lesson report
Checkpoint: is your evidence ready?
- Check calculations, units, labels, and measurements against the activity requirements.
- Record what actually happened, including unexpected results.
- Explain what you changed and why; attach required drawings, photos, CAD, or code in your classroom assignment.
Submit the evidence specified in the activity and your classroom assignment. The report below collects your notes, calculations, observations, and reflections; attach any required drawings, photos, CAD, or code separately.
A PDF download is not a submission. Review it, then upload it and any required attachments through your classroom assignment system.