Inspired Designs

The process below is intended to be a compass, not a set of directions.

1. Identify
Learn what the real problem entails. Often times products treat the symptoms. What we really want to do is solve the root problem.

2. Brain Dump
You and I both have what experts call "preconceived notions" this means we think we know the answer right away, but we don't. This step makes us to get rid of those "answers" that keep failing.

3. Research
Take a look around, and do it as if it were your first time looking at things. A combination of market and user research is conducted in order to best understand the issues surrounding the product opportunity.

4. Ideation
This is where all the creative energy is needed. So the cliches "Think outside the box", and "Look for blue sky ideas" all apply here.

5. Evaluation
After the free flow of ideas you get to take a look at all of them and decide which ones should go on the next round and which ones should not. Users can be involved in this stage and it is recommended.

6. Concept Development
The ideas that are selected to move forward are developed in more detail. For example consideration is given to color, materials, manufacuturing, dimensions, and more.

7. Evaluate
Now at a higher level of critique you take a look at the ideas that have been developed and determine which is the best solution when considering the stakeholders involved.

8. Production
When the concept has been developed to a degree of production computer aided design (CAD) is introduced.