The Contextual Process

Ok so here is the situation. I work with a process that pulls the real contextual data from you, the end user. I pull the data by interviewing you and then I sit around and process the data till I see the common themes and can make solid decision on the focus of the design needed. Once I’m focused I have another process that gives me the context I need to affirm my design by even more interviews with you, the end user.

The end result is a system that works because it was built on the real knowledge of what you are doing. I didn’t just pull an idea out of nowhere that I liked and tested it. I found out what was going on and I designed for that. Through design research I’m not just shooting bullets wildly, hoping I’ll hit the target eventually. I’m cocked, I’m loaded and I’m staring straight at the bulls’ eye.

This Contextual process is working well for me because I’ve been burdened with the need to see the whole picture before. I hate it when some just walks up to me and says “Hey build this”. Sure we all have that complaint, and we’ve dealt with it, but why do I have to deal with it? There has to be a better way and I do believe I’ve finally found it.

A breakdown of basic design process I work with: