Design thinking is an approach to solving problems in an innovative way. It is usually associated with the development of products and services, but the concept is much broader.

The double diamond is in practice a design thinking method. To be a process with the aim of providing a possible solution to the user that suits his need. For this, it is developed on the basis of the recording of numerous hypotheses and problems.

In this way, this methodology, especially for UX designers, helps to find creative, lasting and more assertive solutions in their projects, which consist of four different phases: Discover, Define, Develop and Deliver.

It can also help you when you are presenting your case studies and following the double diamond logic timeline.

Tim Brown, a reference in design thinking and author of the book “Design thinking: a powerful methodology to decree the end of old ideas” (2009), explains that the approach combines new technology with human needs.

From these characteristics, design thinking acquires two functions:

• Expand the design concept to address the challenges facing companies and humanity;
• Allow each individual to find the best answers to the problems they face on a daily basis.

The Double Diamond is a diagram formed by four linked triangles to depict the four stages of the process leading to innovation. In this way he sketches the convergences and divergences of thinking that occur along the way.

The double diamond method

Image from: https://www.redspark.io/double-diamond-o-que-e-e-como-usar/

The 4 steps of design thinking

Now that you understand the concept, you should be eager to apply it, right?

Design thinking is developed in phases. Meet each of them:

1. Discover/Immersion
The first step of design thinking involves a lot of research. It is necessary to examine everything that the company involves and affects, in addition to analyzing the competition.
The immersion can include SWOT analysis, benchmarking, Big Data and customer feedback, for example.

2. Define/Ideas
Brainstorming and mind maps are important tools in this part of the process. Ideation begins with identifying the points that need to be improved. At this point, the conversation between the team should flow. No one should feel compelled not to share their insights.

3. Develop/Prototyping
Test time. The team must choose which ideas from the previous stage are most likely to succeed. Creating prototypes of products and services is a way to reduce failures, in addition to saving the company. With the tests performed, the team must decide whether the idea can now be implemented and whether more adjustments need to be made.

4. Deliver/Implementation
In the last step of design thinking, it is time to bring the solution to the public. The product or service can now be introduced to the market, following a communication and advertising strategy established by the marketing area. Remember that the process does not end here. A product can always be improved, based on the experience of customers, suppliers and employees.

Watch these videos to learn more about the process:

Quick steps through the Double Diamond

Design Thinking In Business