“Personas, sketches, wireframes, etc.” We often talk about the artifacts of design, but design is so much more than that! It’s about choosing and applying the correct process to achieve a desired outcome.
What is a design process?
Put simply, a design process is a series of systematic actions used to achieve a specific outcome.
How should we think about design?
I want to challenge you to think of design as “becoming an expert in a subject –and then using an informed perspective to create”. Not everyone can draw, but anyone can apply design.
How then, do we decide on the best process to use?
It all starts with understanding the problem and the desired outcome (future state). We use design to bridge the gap between our present challenges and future solutions. But! The approach must always mesh with timelines, scope, and business needs.
Remember that research is an integral part of the process.
It is essential to resist the tendency to become purely output-focused. Only when we give equal emphasis to inputs (research) can we confidently design.
3 Principles for design success:
Tools change at the speed of the internet. Remember that software is merely the means of implementing a design – don’t get too attached.
Good design is timeless. While designers are constantly adapting themselves, the principles of good design remain the foundation of our craft.
People matter more than design. It’s our job to advocate for users and remember that we design for real people. Healthy and motivated teams launch the best products.