What should be included in a problem statement as part of an executive summary?

Including a clear depiction of the issue at hand in a problem statement is essential because it provides a precise understanding of the challenge that needs to be addressed. This clarity allows stakeholders to grasp the implications of the problem, facilitating informed decision-making and prioritization of resources. By succinctly articulating the issue, the problem statement sets the stage for discussing potential solutions and their associated benefits, ensuring that everyone involved is aligned on what is being addressed.

While the listing of direct costs associated with previous incidents, explanations of employee training attendance, and a description of the company's mission may provide useful context in different sections of a report, they do not serve the primary purpose of summarizing the core problem. Effective problem statements focus on articulating the specific issues that require attention, making option C the most relevant choice for an executive summary.