A four-stage design framework (Discover, Define, Develop, Deliver) from the UK Design Council.
The Double Diamond is a four-stage design framework developed by the UK Design Council, comprising Discover, Define, Develop, and Deliver. This methodology enhances creativity and innovation by focusing on understanding the core issue and its impact on users. It involves two diamonds: one for problem exploration and another for solution development.
The Double Diamond model is inspired by Béla H. Bánáthy’s divergence-convergence model, emphasizing both divergent and convergent thinking. It is widely used in design education and practice for its simplicity and effectiveness.
In the Discover phase, designers engage in extensive research to understand the problem space. This includes qualitative and quantitative research methods such as user interviews, focus groups, and observations. The goal is to gather insights into user needs and pain points.
During the Define phase, designers synthesize data from the discovery phase to define the problem clearly. Techniques like affinity diagrams and user journey mapping help identify patterns and pinpoint challenges. A design brief is created to guide the subsequent phases.
In the Develop phase, teams brainstorm and ideate solutions. This involves workshops, low-fidelity prototyping, and cross-functional collaboration to test various ideas. The focus is on finding a viable solution through iterative prototyping and testing.
The final Deliver phase involves testing solutions on a small scale, refining them based on feedback, and preparing them for full-scale implementation. This phase ensures that the solution meets user needs effectively.
The Double Diamond framework offers several benefits:
This model is versatile and can be applied across various design disciplines, making it a cornerstone of design language. It is particularly useful in UX/UI design for creating user-centered products and services.
The Double Diamond design process is a powerful tool for designers seeking to develop effective solutions. By following its four stages, designers can ensure that their projects are well-researched, innovative, and user-focused.
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