Stop Talking Models, Start Framing Problems -The Problem Statement

People don't want a quarter-inch drill bit; they want a quarter-inch hole.

Most legal teams start an AI project by talking about models, vendors, or “the art of the possible.”

That’s why most AI projects stall: the problem is still fuzzy.

After helping dozens of firms shape rough ideas into real initiatives, I keep returning to one deceptively simple frame:

The Problem Statement Format

WHEN [situation] WE WANT TO [motivation] SO THAT WE CAN [expected outcome]

Why it works:

• Instant clarity – three blanks, one scroll-length sentence.
• Single focus – no scope-creep before you even start.
• Shared language – partners, associates, IT, vendors all nod at the same time.
• Outcome-first – the finish line is baked in.

People crave both familiarity and novelty; this pattern gives them a structure they recognise filled with an idea that feels fresh.

Your ability to capture ideas, communicate outcomes and drive progress with AI will grow using this format. It works.

Take any idea for applying AI in legal, and put it into this structure to go from a hazy idea to something crystal clear and tangible.

Here are some examples:

Fuzzy idea: We need to use AI in compliance.

Problem Statement:

WHEN ensuring internal compliance and aiming to support employees in understanding what to do without reading full codes of conduct and lengthy processes, WE WANT TO provide quick and easy access to essential information and guidance, SO THAT WE CAN ensure employees consistently act correctly without needing to consult the legal team for every annoying question.

Fuzzy idea: Let’s use AI to analyse briefs.

Problem Statement:

WHEN we receive a counterparty's written brief and want to inform the client WE WANT TO create a qualitative insight, including an assessment regarding viability or the facts/arguments presented, SO THAT WE CAN show the client that we quickly address their matter and so that we can assess the amount of work required to reply to the brief.

Those are real examples of Problem Statements that came out of a workshop we ran recently.

Want more templates, insights & frameworks like this?

If you like frameworks that turn buzzwords into action, grab a seat at our virtual “AI Essentials for Modern Lawyers” seminar next week. We’ll spend 90 minutes distilling everything we’ve learned about helping legal teams understand and apply AI in their daily workflows.

We only have 22 spots left.

Learn more and secure your spot.

Thanks,

Uwais Iqbal

PS - I’m leading a roundtable at LegalTechTalk on Friday, 27th June. If you’re attending LTT, give me a shout or come find me!