Here is my UX design process which I use on most projects. It’s designed to ensure that a usability challenge is examined from all angles to give the best chance of success. The depth and extent to which it is implemented on projects often depends on timescales and client budgets. I always aim to deliver maximum value for my clients regardless of the project parameters.
My UX/UI Process
Research
The UX design process starts with research. I gather information in order to understand the key user groups, their goals, behaviours, context and pain points. I use a mix of qualitative and quantitative methods like user interviews, surveys, heuristic reviews, competitor benchmarking and user testing.
Analysis
Once the research phase has been completed, we are left with many forms of useful but often disparate data sources. We need to tidy and organise this into quality observations which can be used to inform our future interaction designs. Key analysis techniques I use are Affinity Diagrams, Customer Journey Maps and Customer Value Curves, all of which are usually delivered in interactive workshops, either in person or remotely (FigJam / Miro).
Design
The design phase is where my creative solutions begin to take shape. Based on the insights from the analysis phase, I brainstorm and develop initial concepts and layouts. This can involve sketching, wireframing, and creating mockups to explore different ideas and approaches. The design phase is iterative, often involving feedback loops with stakeholders and users to refine and improve the concepts.
Prototype
Prototyping allows us to create interactive models of the design concepts I developed in the previous phase. These prototypes can range from low-fidelity paper sketches to high-fidelity digital simulations. Prototyping allows me to test and explore how users interact with the design in a realistic manner without investing significant resources in full-scale development. It helps me identify usability issues and areas for improvement early in the process, ensuring that the final product is user-friendly and intuitive.
Validate
Validation involves testing the prototypes with real users to gather feedback and verify that the design solutions meet their needs and expectations. I mainly do this through usability testing, A/B testing, and other user feedback mechanisms. The goal of this phase is to confirm that the design works as intended and to identify any issues or areas for enhancement. Validation is crucial for minimising the risk of costly mistakes and ensuring that the design aligns with user needs.
Build
In the build phase, I translate the validated design into a fully functional product. This involves collaborating with developers and other stakeholders to implement the design to the required specifications. The previous hard work and organisation of the component libraries should pay dividends here, allowing efficient export of components for the development team to build the final product.
Test
Testing is the final stage before the product is launched, we can test the product in its most realistic state. If budget allows, I always carry out user testing at this stage to ensure that all the UX work done previously has been implemented fully.