As product designers, we're tasked with tackling complex problems and crafting innovative solutions.
Through a series of challenging experiences and lessons learned, I've come to realize that my true role as a product designer is to amplify value. Today, I'm intentional about the problems I tackle, focusing on those that have the greatest potential to drive meaningful impact for our customers, and approaching them in a way that maximizes value delivery.
By focusing on multiplying value rather than solving problems, one actually becomes a better problem solver.
But before we can create, we must first understand. In this article, we'll explore 17 critical questions to help you sharpen your thinking, clarify your approach, and drive meaningful design decisions.
#1 Understanding the Problem
1. What is the problem we're trying to solve? Defining the problem is the first step in solving it. Take the time to articulate the issue, and ensure everyone involved is on the same page.
2. Who is the problem affecting? Identify the users, stakeholders, and teams impacted by the problem. This will help you develop empathy and create solutions that meet their needs.
3. What are the key performance indicators (KPIs) for this problem? Establish clear metrics to measure the problem's impact and the effectiveness of your solution.
#2 Defining the Context
4. What are the constraints we're working within? Consider the technical, financial, and resource limitations that may influence your approach.
5. What are the user's pain points and motivations? Understand the user's needs, desires, and frustrations to design a solution that resonates with them.
6. What are the business goals and objectives? Align your solution with the organization's strategic objectives to ensure a successful outcome.
Impact = reach * intensity * user segment
#3 Analyzing the Current State
7. What is the current user experience? Analyze the existing user journey to identify areas for improvement and opportunities for innovation.
8. What are the technical requirements and limitations? Consider the technical feasibility of your solution and any potential roadblocks.
9. What are the potential risks and consequences? Anticipate potential pitfalls and develop contingency plans to mitigate them.
#4 Planning and Executing
10. What are the key stakeholders' expectations? Manage stakeholder expectations by understanding their needs, concerns, and priorities.
11. What is the timeline for this project? Establish a realistic project timeline to ensure timely delivery and effective resource allocation.
12. What is the budget for this project? Determine the budget constraints and allocate resources accordingly.
#5 Evaluating and Refining
13. What are the available resources and tools? Take stock of the resources, tools, and expertise at your disposal to inform your approach.
14. What are the potential solutions and trade-offs? Generate a range of potential solutions and evaluate the trade-offs associated with each.
15. How will we measure the success of this project? Define clear metrics and benchmarks to evaluate the project's success and identify areas for improvement.
#6 Looking Ahead
16. What are the potential iterations and future developments? Consider the potential for future iterations and developments to ensure your solution remains relevant and effective.
17. What did we learn, and how can we apply it to future projects? Reflect on the project's outcomes and identify key takeaways to inform future design decisions.
By incorporating these 17 essential questions into your design process, you'll be better equipped to tackle complex problems, drive meaningful solutions, and elevate your skills as a product designer.
