The design process starts first and foremost with a problem to be solved. Whether I’m updating an existing design or building a new one from scratch, it all starts with a problem!

Next, identify. What’s the true root of the problem being solved? This is where data collection comes in. Meeting with stakeholders is key. I really value the time I get to spend talking to people in this stage. It’s important to me that I am able to move forward in the process with a solid understanding of my audience and their needs.

Once I feel confident in my understanding of what the stakeholders need, I take time to build a plan. This plan is flexible to allow for changes as new information comes into play, but for me, having a roadmap to follow as I dive into the next phase is integral to keeping focused on the overall goals of the project.

After all that is done, it’s finally time to ideate. Here, I try to generate a large volume of ideas. Starting with quick sketches on note cards or post-it notes keeps me from fixating on one concept, and helps me to flesh out a bigger picture of what the final product could achieve. I refine my ideas, creating higher-fidelity mockups as I work through ideation.

When I’m satisfied with the direction my wireframes are going, it’s time to create and present a draft. Whether this is a prototype or design concept, the key for me at this stage is to create a deliverable that can effectively communicate the final vision to my stakeholders for feedback. Taking and using criticism is one of my most highly valued skills. Every design is a collaboration, and being able to really hear and take to heart the critique of stakeholders and my peers is essential to taking the final results as high as they can go.

Finally, it’s time to test! Whether the product is graphic design or UX design, testing the effectiveness of the final result is a hugely beneficial tool for improving the existing design, as well as future ones! I believe strongly in the value of learning from the shortcomings of past work. The methods of gathering this data scale dramatically depending on the project, but it is work that is always worth doing.