Entrepreneurial UX Fundamentals - Putting Testing Methods into Practice - Design Sketches
In the world of entrepreneurship and innovation, sketches have proven to be a valuable tool in the ideation and solution-finding stages. Contrary to popular belief, these simple drawings are not meant to demonstrate artistic ability, but rather to provide clarity of solution.
For instance, the software company that would later become Microsoft, started with its original concept and agreement drafted on beer mats in a pub. This informal setting was conducive to idea generation, a process that did not require artistic prowess from its employees. Even the simplest line drawings or stick figures can effectively communicate solutions and how they address a problem.
Sketches are particularly useful when solutions involve multiple actions. They provide a visual representation that can be easily understood, making it easier to identify potential issues and refine the solution. This preliminary step is crucial before investing large amounts of cash in turning solutions into something more.
Testing a sketch with a single user is better than none at all. Feedback from users can help move a solution forward, potentially saving development costs. Users may suggest alternative ideas or improvements to the sketch, offering valuable insights that could lead to a more effective solution.
It's important to identify users in initial research for feedback on sketches. User research tools, such as simple sketches, play a crucial role in gathering feedback and refining ideas. Useful feedback should be documented for future reference.
Sketches are not a replacement for user testing, but a tool to aid in the understanding of solutions before testing. They offer a quick and easy way to test an idea without requiring significant effort.
So next time you're brainstorming ideas, don't underestimate the power of a simple sketch. It could be the key to unlocking your next big idea. And who knows, maybe your sketches will one day be discussed over beer mats in a pub, just like Bill Gates and Paul Allen's were.
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