The Ultimate Design Research Bible - Universal Methods of Design

Howdy folks!

Today, I wanna dive into a treasure trove of design wisdom with you all. You see, I've got this little gem of a book I want to rave about - "Universal Methods of Design" by Bella Martin and Bruce Hanington. This book, oh, let me tell you, it's more than just a book. It's my guiding light, my beacon of clarity in the sometimes murky waters of design.

Now, before I get too carried away, let's backtrack a bit. In my previous musings, I've often emphasized the crucial role of research in the realm of successful design. Research, I've said, helps us grasp the essence of the problems we're tackling, free from the shackles of bias, and opens up a plethora of potential solutions. It's the cornerstone upon which great designs are built.

And here's where "Universal Methods of Design" swoops in like a hero in a cape. This book, my friends, is akin to a sacred text for me. It's not just about UX design, though it's certainly a treasure trove for UX enthusiasts like myself. No, it goes beyond that. It's a compendium of best practices, a roadmap for navigating the intricate landscape of design, regardless of the specific domain.

Let me break it down for you, just like I love to do.

First off, this book is all about logic. Remember our discussion about logic in UX strategy? Well, "Universal Methods of Design" is a testament to that logic. It's systematic, coherent, and oh-so-reasonable. Each method outlined in the book is like a cog in a well-oiled machine, fitting seamlessly into the grand scheme of things.

And boy, does it cover a lot of ground! From simple yet powerful techniques like brainstorming and sketching to more complex methodologies like usability testing and card sorting, it's got it all. Whether you're a seasoned UX strategist or a fledgling designer finding your footing, there's something here for everyone.

But perhaps what I love most about this book is its emphasis on governance. As designers, we're not just creators; we're stewards of our creations. We nurture them, we guide them, and yes, sometimes we even defend them with all our heart (weird as that may sound). "Universal Methods of Design" teaches us not just how to design, but how to govern our designs with wisdom and grace.

So, my dear friends, if you haven't already delved into the depths of "Universal Methods of Design," I encourage you to do so. Let it be your compass in the vast sea of design possibilities. Let it be your mentor, your confidant, your trusted companion on this wondrous journey of creation.

Until next time, cheers! 🚀