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A Holistic Approach: My Philosophy for Solving Design Problems

Approach

In my approach to solving design problems, I lead with curiosity and prioritize a deep understanding of the problem before venturing into the solution. By embracing the 5 phases of design thinking and integrating the Jobs-to-be-Done theory, I ensure that my designs are rooted in empathy, user needs, and desired outcomes. This approach enables me to create impactful and meaningful solutions that not only address the users' challenges but also resonate with their deeper motivations. By placing the problem at the forefront, I am able to craft design solutions that make a positive and lasting impact on the lives of the users.

FreshWorks_Design_Thinking_Process

Problem
User Needs
Scope

Market Analysis
Analogous Examples

Understand


This is the most crucial step when solving a problem. If you get it wrong here, you might as well stop altogether. In the first phase of design thinking, empathy serves as the cornerstone of understanding users. I dedicate time to learn from research, observing, listening, and engaging users while embracing the JTBD theory to comprehend their desires, motivations, and unmet needs. By genuinely being curious and connecting with users, I gain insights that inform every aspect of the design process, fostering a human-centered approach that prioritizes their experiences and aspirations.

Building upon the empathetic foundation, I synthesize user insights and align them with the JTBD theory. Rather than accepting surface-level definitions, I embrace an inquisitive mindset. Asking questions to challenge assumptions, uncover hidden complexities, and gain a comprehensive understanding of the problem. I explore various angles and perspectives, ensuring a more robust and clear problem statement.

Personas
Customer Journey
User Flows
Feature Mapping
Quick Prototyping

Explore


Leading with curiosity, I seek diverse and unconventional ideas, novel approaches and explore multiple possibilities. I try and push beyond the obvious solutions and constantly ask "What if?", "Why not?", and "How Might We?" I encourage collaboration, foster diverse perspectives, and push the boundaries of conventional thinking, aiming to generate groundbreaking ideas that address the users' jobs and aspirations.

Just like a house that's been in construction for months and being able to install material, finishes, and paint walls, this phase is where I'm most eager to explore interface possibilities that allow users to provide feedback and ensure that the designs align with their desired outcomes.

User Testing
Surveys
Libraries
Design Sytems
Ship It!

Materialize


By embracing experimentation and failure as a learning opportunity, I refine the prototype iteratively, minimizing risks, and maximizing the potential for success. This phase serves as the final validation step in my approach. I engage users in the testing process, seeking their feedback and insights on the prototype. By incorporating their input, I refine and optimize the design, ensuring that it aligns with their desired outcomes and motivations. This user-centric evaluation allows me to iterate and continuously improve the solution, ensuring its effectiveness in addressing the problem at hand.

Even though collaboration with development and product is done throughout the design process, this is when designs are made real. I work closely with developers to ensure the solution is feasible and meets the desired outcome and standard of a great solution.

© 2023 — Sean McCarthy
© 2018 — Sean McCarthy

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