"Issue" vs "Problem"

[dsernst]

I'm conflicted about when to use the word "issue" and when to use "problem". ( Particularly while editing this document: https://github.com/LetsFix/letsfix.net/blob/master/theprocess.md )

This website tries to show the "DifferenceBetween" -- http://www.differencebetween.net/language/difference-between-issue-and-problem/ -- but it didn't help all that much.

arguments for always using "problem"? or always using "issue"?

[iangilman]

I like issue because it's more general, but I think it's okay to use problem, task, etc., when the context warrants it.

On the other hand, I suppose problem is a more dramatic word, and therefore potentially more likely to inspire action.

[dsernst]

In Introduction.md (home directory), I started switching most instances to
'Problem' for a formal context, i.e. Problem page, but issue etc in an
informal context. The strongest reason is because "Solve Problems" feels
more natural (/ widely accessible) than "solve issues".

Does this resonate?

On Saturday, July 12, 2014, iangilman [email protected] wrote:

I like issue because it's more general, but I think it's okay to use
problem, task, etc., when the context warrants it.

On the other hand, I suppose problem is a more dramatic word, and
therefore potentially more likely to inspire action.

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#15 (comment).

[iangilman]

Yeah, problem seems more concrete, which is probably a good thing for this audience.