Not all problems are the same. What works in one scenario doesn’t mean it will work in another.
There's not a one size fits all solution when approaching problems because problems may require different methods or a mix of methodologies. Thinking critically and having low ego enables the ability to extract the right insights, connect dots, and see a broader picture.
We have to think broader then just technical to make experiences better for people while providing a competitive advantage for the business. Designers need to account for emotions, environments, and physical elements that will impact the overall experience.
Below are a few ways on how I think about, process, and leverage my approach to problem solving.
ECOSYSTEM THINKING
Change is constant and complexity is steadily increasing. Expanding my thinking wider and in the context of systems allows me to consider more alternatives and possibilities.
Applying an ecosystem thinking approach helps me understand the inter-relationships between things, and helps shape a more wholistic, end-to-end experience.
UX DISCIPLINE
User or Customer-centered design is not about making something look visually appealing. Designing products and experiences involves aesthetics, but more important than aesthetics is function and value for the people using the product or involved in the experience.
In order to craft the right solution or experience, it's important for me to take the necessary time to plan, research, and synthesize. The right solutions should be based on research and not guesses.
It's also important to keep a low ego and continuously learn from others, and how human psychology impacts design.
BUSINESS
In my role as a designer, I'm am responsible to enhance or create value for customers, but part of my role is also to create a competitive advantage in the marketplace for the company.
Understanding how the company makes money, the marketplace, and how my business partners think; helps guide how products fit into the bigger vision of the company.
Business Model Innovation Framework - the "magic triangle" from Ryan Rumsey
CREATIVITY
Creativity is work!
Being creative on demand is not based on always being inspired or motivated. Both inspiration and motivation are great, but they're both fickle. When a deadline is looming, waiting on inspiration or motivation can jeopardize delivering results.
There are processes to creativity that usually involve continuous learning and doses of trial and error. In order to get good ideas, you often have to work through several ideas or build upon previous concepts.
On the left are numerous sketches I worked on before delivering the solution on the right that users commented was easy to use and elegant.
A few activities I do to stay creative and full of ideas are reading, writing, sketching, cooking, exercising, and traveling.
The following are a few tools I use to stay creative and help me bridge connections:
Pencil & Paper
iOS Notes App
Overcast
Netflix
RELATIONSHIPS
Building products and experiences is satisfying, but not easy. You don't necessarily need a lot of people to create the right experience and product, but you do need people to be aligned and working as a team.
Showcasing technology wins with our CEO and Executive Chairman
PRESENTATION
Presentation is all about connection. Knowing your audience, what they care about, and having a servant first mindset helps keep your audience engaged with the message, as well as, build allies you can partner with in the future.
As a designer, having effective clear communication helps you build trust and influence with your team and business partners. Building trust and influence creates an environment where your audience understands the rationale behind recommendations, risks, or choices you presented to them.
Me giving a talk about deliberate practice through a beat-box tutorial with the audience.
Experience Matters
A child may not remember the final score, but they remember the experience of their first game. Travelers may not remember their exact plane seat, but they remember if they had a negative experience flying. When done properly, crafting opportunities for positive experiences to happen provide user and business value.
I’m a UX Designer who truly enjoys the craft of UX and welcome the opportunity to collaborate with people who want to serve users through impactful design. If that's you, we should chat.