✎ Unlocking Design Potential: Upskilling Designers in Research
Claudia Szabuniewicz
DesignOps
Design Lead
I've sifted through hundreds of design applications. One critical skill gap in junior designers that often emerges is a lack of research skills and critical thinking.
So what?
The Changing Role of Designers
Traditionally, designers were primarily responsible for creating visually appealing products and interfaces. However, as products and services become more complex and user expectations rise, designers must now be equipped to make informed decisions based on user insights and data. They need to move beyond assumptions and embrace a research-driven approach to design.
Unfortunately, many design education programs and self-taught designers may not prioritize research and critical thinking, leading to a skill gap that hampers their ability to create impactful designs.
Design without research is like navigating a ship in uncharted waters
It's essential for designers to understand the needs, pain points, and aspirations of end-users. Research provides valuable insights that can shape the design process, resulting in user-centered solutions that meet business objectives. By conducting user interviews, usability testing, and competitive analysis, designers gain a deeper understanding of the ERP landscape, enabling them to make informed decisions and create experiences that truly resonate with users.
By becoming proficient in research methodologies, designers can elevate their problem-solving abilities and drive better design outcomes. Research equips designers with the tools to empathize with users, anticipate their needs, and make data-driven decisions. It fosters a culture of continuous learning and growth, positioning designers as indispensable assets to their organizations.
The Value of Research Skills in Design
Research skills are the foundation of user-centric design. Conducting user research helps designers understand user behaviors, pain points, motivations, and preferences. This deep understanding enables designers to craft solutions that directly address user needs, resulting in products that are more intuitive and satisfying to use. Without research, designers risk creating products based on assumptions or personal preferences, which may not align with their target audience.
Unlocking Potential
How might we cultivate a curious and research-driven culture that empowers your team to thrive?
✧ Incorporate Research into Design Processes
Encourage designers to integrate research methodologies, such as user testing and surveys, into their design workflows. This ensures that decisions are based on user insights, enhancing the effectiveness of design solutions. Research has been baked into our design process.
✳︎ Promote Collaborative Learning
Create opportunities for designers to share their research experiences and learn from one another. Regular design critique sessions and knowledge-sharing workshops foster a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.
✬ Provide Training and Resources
Invest in research-focused training programs, workshops, and online resources to equip designers with the necessary research skills. These initiatives can cover topics such as interview techniques, data analysis, and synthesizing research findings.
✺ Foster Cross-Functional Partnerships
Encourage designers to collaborate closely with stakeholders from various departments, such as product management and customer support. This enables them to gain a holistic understanding of the product ecosystem, leading to more impactful and user-centric designs.
The demand for skilled designers who excel in research and critical thinking will only grow.
Embrace research as an integral part of the design process and pave the way for a future where experiences truly transform businesses and empower end-users.
Ask me how ✧
