A flexible framework
Let's be clear: the design process is messy by nature. There is no perfect process to solve every single problem there is.
Having a design process is good. It gives focus and direction. It helps avoid ambiguous problem statements. The double diamond design process is my baseline toolkit. I try to keep in the back of my mind and reference to guidance.
The double diamond process
Diamond 1 - Discover by diverging
Step 1
Usually, I start with a problem or goal and go wild exploring. There are a couple of exercises that help me in this step.
- Problem exploration
- Foundational research
- User journey map
Diamond 1 - Converging and defining
Step 2
In this phase, we are taking the foundational research and synthesizing the information. Taking teachings and findings, clustering them into themes, highlighting key recommendations and opportunities.
- Synthesizing information
- Defining customers or personas
- Product requirements
- How might we...
- User stories
Diamond 2 - Develop solutions
Step 3
This is the diamond I thrive on the most. In this diverging phase, I try to not constrain too much. This is where I explore visual concepts, information architecture, hierarchy, and user flows.
- Sketches with concept explorations
- User flows
- Wireframes
- Prototyping
- User testing
- Design reviews
- Recommendations & rationale
Diamond 2 - Deliver
Step 4
This is the final convergence to bring the ideas to the finish line.Usually, when I move into a high-fidelity design and refine the experience. Sharing clear design documentation and close collaboration with engineers is key for success.
The last part of this diamond can be a repeatable cycle and help in the next cycle to improve the product.
- High fidelity design
- Design reviews
- Design documentation
- Handoff
- Design QA
To conclude
This seems like a very linear design process. It is, but it only acts as a guide and tools should depend on the project's needs. The double diamond helps me decide and move the project forward. This is all about thinking about what will best serve all members involved in the project.