Mini-problem

Mini-problem is a concept used in ARIZ.

The prefix “mini” does not imply that the problem is small, but rather that its solution must involve only minimal changes to the system. 

A mini-problem is created by taking the original problem situation and adding a constraint: everything in the system must stay the same or become simpler, while the desired action (or property) appears, or the harmful action (or property) disappears. This transformation doesn’t mean we’re trying to solve a “smaller” problem. Instead, adding this extra requirement – achieving the desired result without changing the system – sharpens the conflict and blocks any path toward compromise right from the start. This is achieved by making use of resources that already exist – either within the system or in its surrounding environment.

In engineering projects, this approach is often a necessary condition for balancing business interests with the ambitions of engineers.