Understanding and connecting with the users' needs, behaviors, and challenges is the foundation of the entire design process. The goal is to gain a deep, human-centered understanding of the people I am designing for and their varied needs for a frictionless, enjoyable experience.

Synthesizing the insights gathered to clearly define the problem that needs solving. This step focuses on taking the research and turning it into actionable goals and insights that will guide the design process moving forward.

Brainstorming, generating, and exploring a wide range of ideas and solutions to address the defined problems. Leaning into creativity and open thinking, the goal is to come up with many possible solutions before narrowing down to the strongest ideas.

Creating tangible representations of the design solutions to bring ideas to life in a form that can be tested and iterated upon before moving into final design development. Prototypes can range from wireframes to high-fidelity, realistic models that closely resemble the final product.

Putting prototypes or realistic representations to the test with real users to gather feedback and evaluate the design’s effectiveness helps identify any usability issues, understand how users interact with the product, and determine whether the design solutions meet the defined needs and goals.

Preparing the final design assets, documentation, and specifications that are handed off to developers, stakeholders, or fabricators for implementation; this step ensures that all the necessary materials are ready to bring the design to life in its final form.