Identify the problem:

Discover a  problem that needs solving or a purpose that needs to be fulfilled by a product. 

A few techniques used: Observing the end user in context, conducting personal interviews and SWOT Analysis

 

Research:

Conduct indepth research for existing products or ideas that may serve as an inspiration

 

Define the problem:

Create a document that lists the goal for product along with constraints and limitaions, features in categories - must have, nice to have and dont care about. 

 

Learn 01

Knowledge Sharing:

Share the learnings from the previous process with concerned stakeholders so everyone is on the same page in terms of requirements, goal and constraints.

 

Sketch Ideas:

Based on the design requirements documentation, make sketches of concepts that may have the potential. 

 

Group Brainstorming:

As a group, come up with as many solutions as possible in least amount of time. These sessions are no critical judgement zones allowing people to work of ideas from other. Select the ideas with best chance of  success and move to next stage.

Ideate 02

Prototype 03

Prototpe Building:

Create prototypes of sketches that validate the functinality or form of the product. Functional Prototypes can be created to test just a few features or the complete mechanism. 

Prototypes can be in form of 3D CAD models, foam models or low cost quick turnover 3D models.

Early versions of design soultion help verify whether design meets the original challenge requirements.

 

Final Design:

From the prototypes made, pick a final design that incorporates all functions that work and form selected.

Evaluate & Evolve 04

Testing:

Extensive testing carried out not just by experts but also potential users. Identify areas that can be improved.

 

Redesign:

Discuss as a group on how to improve product/solution. Go back to the drawing board, make revisions and iterate the design, so the product is as good as it can be.

 

Manufacturing:

Once testing has gone well, plans are made to manufacture the product.