It’s always easy to notice bad design. It sticks out like a sore thumb when it doesn’t deliver results as intended – but when it’s done right, it’s hardly noticeable. Good design is invisible, because it works and draws no complaints.
As designers, we know it’s not so much the appeal of aesthetic that differentiates good or bad design, but rather the function and purpose, too. Both of these factors necessitate design, and in return, design enhances them. Put simply, what determines ‘good design’ is reflecting a sweet symmetry between an aesthetic appeal and a clear function.
This is where design thinking comes into play. Learning the principles of design can elevate your critical thinking in building better experiences for your customers – after all, it’s a human-centred approach to solving problems. Rooted in empathy and users’ experiences, design thinking leads us right to the core of any complex challenges by translating observations into key insights. In a way, everything is designed for us, by us.
Needless to say, there is power in design thinking, and by harnessing its potential in the way we strategise, grow and innovate, we are able to cultivate our creativity and stimulate meaningful solutions.
Good design is a good business decision! Here are 3 ways to get started with design thinking:
Start every project with a ‘What if…?’
Right at the start of the discovery phase, fully embrace a question-framing mindset, ideally guided by insights gathered through market research. Now is the time to encourage creativity – ensure a productive brainstorming session by building on generative ideas, and fostering a collaborative environment to keep the conversation going. To start thinking like a designer, get obsessive with ideas. Unlock your imagination.
A good way to structure your ideation is by using mind maps to visualise all possibilities and keep track with progress. In case your ideas grow too big and start to unravel, always remember to keep your ideas in check by staying grounded to your original goals to reach a consensus.
Focus on the experience
To create meaningful user experiences, empathy plays a critical role in the process, and no amount of aesthetic will remedy a flawed product. Apply the psychology of UI (User Interface) and UX (User Experience) with core approaches such as accessing your people’s needs and desires, iterating prototypes, and testing out the usability by gathering feedback. These should be the backbone of your process in defining an optimal experience.
There’s always a new idea, product, or feature introduced in the market, and it’s up to us to ensure customers have a seamless journey. Failing to do that will risk the growth of your business. Through the lens of a designer, you’ll sharpen your vision and pick up better observation skills that will aid you in your holistic approach.
Tell a better story
A brand is more than how it looks – it’s also what people say about it. How you choose to convey your company and products will set the scene for your brand positioning, and your success largely depends on how effective you are at communicating.
Good designers are naturally compelling at storytelling – they help us amplify our ideas, and communicate through visual language. So, how do you tell your story like a designer? Build on your values, give meaning to your intention, and you will strike a chord better with your audience, because everyone is interested in an engaging story.
We are never running out of problems to solve, but what we can do is always strive to overcome these challenges with different methodologies. If you’re feeling stuck on a seemingly complex issue, there’s no harm applying these new strategies for a change.
Remember, solve your customer’s needs, and you’ll always win.
Ready to make good design decisions but don’t know how to start? You’ve come to the right place: [email protected]