Developed by the British Design Council in 2005, it divides problem solving into two diamonds. The first diamond finds the right problem, and the second diamond finds the right solution.
Think of it like this. You first search a wide riverbed and narrow down to a rich vein. Next, you test multiple extraction tools and build the final machine.
How it works
Discover explores user problems with an open mind. Define focuses research findings into a clear problem statement. Develop explores multiple possible solutions through prototyping. Deliver tests, refines, and ships the winning solution.
When to use it
Use it as a team roadmap for product discovery initiatives, new feature explorations, and large design transformation projects.
Common mistakes
Jumping straight to building solutions in the second diamond without spending enough time understanding the real user problem in the first diamond.
Frequently asked questions
Key takeaways
- Alternates between exploring possibilities and making focused decisions.
- Ensures the team solves the right problem before solving it right.
- Provides a shared vocabulary across product, design, and engineering.