Design Thinking in Project Development

The Process.

Through the different design thinking phases, we can use a series of technics and tools that allow us to develop new products and services, from understanding problems or needs to prototype, business model, evaluating alternatives, client feedback, etc. It is important to punctuate that this is an iterative process.

Empathize.

This stage is likely the most important because it focuses on knowing the client's motivations and objectives outside of the actual requirement, both as a team and an individual. The success of this approach lies largely in your ability to get to know your clients or end users on a personal level. Naturally, taking into account the "hard" statistics, numbers, established strategy, and business plan is crucial since they provide the "context" for the issue, but it is not the main goal of empathy.

Define.

In the initial phase, we want to be able to thoroughly ascertain the major issues raised by the user or customer. In order to truly understand the users, it is then required to examine the information that has been gathered and detail the information that contributes the most. The hypotheses that have the greatest potential for providing value to the client when resolved are defined here.

Ideate.

There is no "bad idea," and the more options there are, the better for the process. It is now up to you to expound on the suggestions for the issues that you chose in the previous step. At this stage, brainstorming is essential to finding the ideal solution for the team and its qualities while keeping the users/customers in mind. As the name implies, during this stage, ideas for solutions are developed, and team members are encouraged to collaborate and participate.

Prototype.

Here, as the name suggests, concepts are turned into prototypes. It pursues more customer and team experimentation. Common materials like paper, cardboard, and Lego bricks can be used to create prototypes that mimic the functions of the finished product. or an app demo in the case of digital prototypes.

Test.

Here, tests are run on the created prototypes, and users/clients are consulted regarding the results of the experimentation with the prototypes. This stage enables the identification of successes, mistakes, flaws, desirable qualities that must be preserved, etc. Ideal to keep a team-wide open mind to how people engage with the prototype, respond to questions, and produce papers.