The conceptual structure and flow of a digital product.

We work towards a shared, clear vision by discovering the context with a solution scan, choosing the focus if our efforts, and defining the goal. Once we have a vision of the product we can start to design the schematic structure conceptually. Only then can we design the user interface and develop the working product.

Discover the context.

To create the best solution, we need to understand as much context as possible. This way we can optimise our solution accordingly. We research the following elements: the market, the users, the technology, the brand, the organisation, and the process.

Choose the focus.

Now that we know the context, we need to find out where to focus on. What are the most important parts to address to create the best solution? To focus, we define the problem your solution solves, and the definition of success for this solution.

Define the goal.

To be laser-focus on creating the right solution, and to make sure everybody is on the same page, we define a clear goal following a fixed formulation. It is called a value proposition. There might be multiple goals. That’s ok, as long as each goal is clear.

Map the solution.

Create a complete overview of the solution, in which all elements are understood and agreed upon. Solutions often have complex structures, information and logic. In this phase we will discover and define all the structures, information and logic the solution contains. This way we can create a complete design in the next steps.

Define the scope of the solution.

A selection of solution features that fit within the time and budget for the project. Now that we know all the elements the solution contains, we can make a better estimate on whether it will fit within the time and budget. If not, this is the time to decide what features are within scope and which ones are not.

Shape the concept.

Define the steps, pages and elements for all the steps in the concept. Combined, they should give a clear view of how the solution will work conceptually.

Tools at the ready:

• The Lifely solution scan
• Service blueprints
• Process maps
• OOUX
• Flowcharts
• Wireframes.