Double diamond design process

[edit] Introduction

Double Diamond is a design process model developed in 2005 by the British Design Council. Using a double diamond diagram, the method breaks down the general design process into four specific phases - discover, define, develop and deliver.

It is a method for using design process visualisation in a graphical way. It was adapted from a model proposed in 1996 by the linguist Béla H Bánáthy. Bánáthy created an earlier version of the model (based on the same four phases) as a method for examining social systems design theory. His study, 'Designing Social Systems in a Changing World', introduced a diagram for a divergence-convergence model which would form the basis of the double diamond design process.

[edit] Product and service development tool

As a design process, double diamond emphasises problem analysis as the basis for creating a solution for the client. Its development was based on case studies gathered from the design departments at 11 global firms:

1. Alessi
2. BSkyB
3. BT
4. LEGO
5. Microsoft
6. Sony
7. Starbucks
8. Virgin Atlantic Airways
9. Whirlpool Corporation
10. Xerox
11. Yahoo!

[edit] Examining the phases

[edit] Discover

The discovery phase is based on an idea that arises and is then explored through methods:

• Market research
• User research
• Managing information
• Design research

[edit] Define

The definition phase ties the findings of the discovery phase to business goals. The activities of this phase include:

• Project development
• Project management
• Project sign-off

[edit] Develop

The development phase develops and tests solutions that are design based to see how they will actually suit the business goals. These activities include:

• Multi-disciplinary working
• Visual management
• Development methods
• Testing

[edit] Deliver

The delivery stage is marked by the introduction of the product or service that has been proposed. Activities during this stage include:

• Final testing, approval and launch
• Targets, evaluation and feedback loops

[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki

• Concept design.
• Design.
• Design methodology.
• Evolutionary design process model EDPM.
• General design theory GDT.
• Product design requirements.
• What is design?
• What makes good design?

[edit] External resources

• Béla H Bánáthy, Designing Social Systems in a Changing World.
• British Design Council, Eleven lessons: managing design in eleven global brands: A study of the design process.