My Process
Like me, my process is always changing. In an ‘ideal’ world I would be able to give each of these steps a generous amount of time. However, every project has its pain points and therefore the approach is always different. Here are a few of my core tools when I take on a project.
OBJECTIVES
Goals & Scope of the Project
I try to find goals that I can achieve throughout the entire process.
RESEARCH
Laying the Groundwork
An undervalued step by startups. Research helps give you a basic blueprint of the area. This can include anything from reading, interviews, reviews, surveys, talking on the phone or face to face, etc.
USER FLOW
Analog Therapy
There is something therapeutic about sketching analog or using sticky notes to create your first flow chart. If you are creating an experience you need to understand the user journey. I start with bare-boned sketches, flow charts, personas, or anything else that can help me visualize the data.
STYLE GUIDES
Branding, Color, Layout & Type
Early on I try to gather the design guidelines I have to follow. Sometimes style guides are already in place. Other times you are creating an entirely new one. Each component plays a big role in the overall experience. I try to make sure everything is purposeful.
WIREFRAMES
Skelton & Lo Fi
These are typically a variety of styles depending on time. Sometimes it is a general storyboard, a skeleton interface, or a low fidelity wireframe.
PROTOTYPES
High Fidelity
The most complete version of your design. Add in color schemes, interactions, dynamic movement, and content.
USER TESTING
Hitting the Mark
One of the most important tools. How is your experience being received? Did I cater to the audience or miss a step. Listen for pain points and make sure I didn’t overlook something.
REITERATE
Always Room for Growth
No experience will be perfect. As the company grows so will the product and the users. Continue to adapt, pivot, and update.