Understanding Design Processes

Design Processes define the steps and methodologies used by designers to solve complex issues and find desirable solutions for clients and end users.

Defining the problem: The first step involves understanding the problem’s context and constraints. This stage may require market research, user interviews, and exploration of the current state.
Research and Brainstorming: Involve gathering information about the problem and devising hypothetical solutions. Brainstorming can help generate concepts and ideas.
Concept Development: At this stage, designers distil the ideas from the brainstorming process into a few viable solutions. These design concepts are typically presented as sketches or quick prototypes.
Refining and Testing: Designers refine their solutions based on feedback and technical constraints. This may involve creating more detailed prototypes, conducting user testing, and tweaking the design based on the results.
Implementation and Launch: The finalised design is then implemented, which can involve various specialists depending on the project. Once deployed, it’s important to gather data and feedback for future improvements.

Different Approaches to Design Processes

Different domains may require unique adaptations of the design process, but the underlying principles remain the same.

The Waterfall Model: An engineering-oriented model where each phase must be completed before the next begins, and there is little to no overlap. It’s systematic but can be inflexible.
The Iterative Model: Similar to the waterfall process but with added flexibility. In this approach, designers may return to an earlier stage of the design to make modifications as needed.
The Agile Model: A popular model in software and digital product design. This approach breaks the project into smaller chunks called ‘sprints’. Each sprint repeats all the stages of the design process in a short timeframe, typically two weeks.
The Double Diamond Model: A model popular in graphic and product design. It consists of four phases: Discover, Define, Develop, and Deliver, which represent problem identification, problem definition, solution generation, and solution delivery, respectively.

The Role of Teamwork in Design Processes

Teamwork plays a central role in most design processes, involving collaboration among different roles.

Design Director: Sets the project direction and oversees the design team.
Designers: Involved in the hands-on work of concept development, prototyping, and refining the designs.
User Researchers: Conduct research and user testing to provide insights into how designs might function in the real world.
Developers: Implement the designs, particularly in tech and digital product design.
Stakeholders: They can include clients, end-users and anyone else with a vested interest in the final design. They provide insights, feedback and validation throughout the process.