Could you create one or more “User Problem Scenarios” (similar to User Needs Statements, as described by the Nielsen Norman Group) framed as questions directed at your product’s audience to highlight its value? User problem scenarios should be based on your user research and understanding of how and why people are using your software.

User Problem Scenarios vs. User Needs Statements

Aspect User Problem Scenarios User Needs Statements
Format Question-based: Want to achieve X while addressing Y? Statement-based: A user needs X to achieve Y.
Purpose Engages users directly and sparks reflection. Guides internal design/development teams.
Tone Conversational, intended to spark interest. Neutral, focused on analysis and empathy.
Primary Audience End-users, often in marketing or onboarding contexts. Designers, developers, and stakeholders.
Contextual Framing Frames the need as a challenge or opportunity. Focuses on the need and goal.

💡TIP: I have found it helpful to start with creating more specific or advanced challenges and then move to general, introductory problems.

A screenshot of the Web Page Builder user interface of Docsify-This.

User Problem Scenarios Created for Docsify-This

(an open-source lightweight Markdown publishing tool)

  1. Curious about using Markdown files as shareable web pages for open education, publishing, or collaboration — with no website setup?
  2. Want to quickly leverage Markdown content for education, publishing, or collaboration?
  3. Are you using a Learning Management System (LMS) and want to leverage constraint-free portable Markdown text for your course content?
  4. Want to embed the same content across multiple platforms while customizing its visual style for each context?
  5. Do you want to maintain access and control of your course content while having the ability to embed it into your institutional Learning Management System (LMS)?
  6. Want to create open course materials that are accessible both inside AND outside your Learning Management System (LMS)?
  7. Do you have multiple Learning Management System (LMS) courses and want one source for content, under your full control?

Example User Problem Scenarios for Figma

(a collaborative prototyping tool)

A screenshot of the prototyping user interface of Figma.

  1. Want to collaborate with design team members across different locations in real time with seamless communication and shared workspace?
  2. Curious about creating a centralized design system that’s easy to set up and keeps your team aligned?
  3. Are you using design tools and want to ensure consistent branding and design components across complex projects?