Begin with the Content
Many designers start solving the problem by applying a generic layout to the design and building out from there. A better approach is to start with your content. The content will dictate or influence the design layout once the information is prioritized based on context and device.
Create Visual Solutions
The goal of all design is to solve a problem. In this case we are solving visual problems. Once we have enough input as to the customer problems or issues we can then apply user centered design to solve the problem. Our visual solutions are reflected in the hierarchy, layout, type, color and imagery of the communication.
Layout, Type, Color, Images
The visual solution is the expression of user experience design through:
- Layout: where things are positioned on the page
- Type: what personality is being projected
- Color: what mood or emotion are you representing
- Images: a picture is worth a thousand words
Deliverables
The user centered design process includes documents that help the designer process and clarify the problem and solutions. These documents contain a road map for the research, design, and development of the project.
Development
After the visual design solutions have been worked out the development phase begins. This is where the functionality is baked in. Creating a working framework based on the solutions identified in the deliverables and using industry best practices is the best way to future proof your project.
Testing
This is the most important aspect of the process. Testing multiple times throughout the process confirms that the correct problems have been identified and that the solutions are working. Test early and test often.
