Here we run through a key subset of DI Methods we practice, guiding learners on how to execute them. They are categorised according to the DI Process (Discover, Define, Develop, Deliver).

Please find a concise reference guide in our DI Method Cards here:

Please also find a concise reference guide for designing for additive manufacturing here:

Used to extract information from existing and/or potential users to gain a deeper understanding of their goals, motivations and pain points.

A technique that maps behavior patterns into archetypal profiles, allowing focused study on the user.

Imagined short stories of users carrying out a task to reach a goal while interacting with a product, service or system (PSS).

A technique that maps behavior patterns into archetypical profiles, allowing focused study on the user.

A block diagram of sequential and parallel activities that captures user interactions with a product, service or system (PSS).

Charts out an archetypal journey of a user’s interaction with a product, service or system (PSS) across channels, fleshing out user emotions.

An extension of an activity diagram and journey map, complementing the frontstage with the backstage.

An organisation of a set of functions that a product, service or system (PSS) must perform or do.

An approach to scope and frame a design opportunity statement, yielding a range of statements, from broad to specific.

An ideation method analogous to the workings of human memory. Ideas are organized in a hierarchy of categories that map back to the design opportunity.

A rapid way to generate and build upon the ideas that you and your team members have.

A method where inspiration for ideation is drawn from comparing a problem or opportunity to existing solutions or situations in other fields.

A strategy to manage risk and reward, built on a series of questions about the innovation concept, its potential market, and the company’s capabilities and competition.

A strategic prototyping template that facilitates the development process for the creation of any prototype.

A tool similar to a linear comic strip, that allows communication and visualisation of concepts in a relatable story (whether product, service or system).

A way to emulate the function or form of a design that can be used to communicate an idea and to prototype interaction.

An in-depth guide for design practitioners and management to apply Design Innovation in their work and inspire a human-centred, systems thinking culture in their teams.