Needs are things your solution HAS TO HAVE! (Think about sizes,  the end-user, precision/accuracy).  Wants are things that could  make your solution even better! (Ideal size, power sources, length of use). The perfect needs statement does not define a solution: stay broad and focus on what the problem is, not the potential solution.

Some Need Statements from Previous Classes…

“A way for open angle glaucoma patents over the age of 40 to monitor their intra-ocular pressure throughout the day and report these measurements to their doctor in order to improve treatment plans.”

“A way to faster and more reliably place invasive blood pressure monitoring in the OR, measured by a decreased use of OR time, a decreased net cost, and at least 50% reduction of adverse events.”

“A way to conveniently and non-invasively monitor ketone (acetone) levels in type 1 diabetic patients in order to decrease complications due to diabetic keto-acidosis (DKA).”