In recent years I have adopted a Design Thinking methodology when I approach a new project. As I learned more about this cyclical, iterative process, I came to realize that I had already been taking this approach and was glad to be able to put a name to it.
Empathize
When I first sit down with a client, I try to approach them with empathy and truly understand the problem from their perspective. I use a variety of methods ranging from user interviews to observation to obtain this deeper understanding.
Define
Once I have gathered all the delights, frustrations, and everything in between I come up with a problem statement that will guide the rest of the process. I like to keep an open mind here, as sometimes the problem the client presents may not actually be the problem we solve in the end.
Ideate
At this phase, I get all the information I have gathered in one place and take a step back to get a sense of the bigger picture. Then I start ideating, often putting pencil to paper to get as many ideas down as quickly as possible. I may even begin some very high-level wireframes to convey how all the pieces will fit together.
Prototype
I absolutely love taking all the ideas brainstormed through the ideation phase and turning them into more detailed prototypes to give my client the look and feel of my design solution. I will often propose co-create sessions during this phase, rapidly prototyping as my client talks through what they envision in their head.
Test
I am a firm believer in testing the entire way through the above steps. Testing early and often has helped to catch design aspects I may have overlooked, brought new problems to light, and confirmed hypotheses.