Week 2 Guide: The Design Process

Outcome: map a design project from brief to portfolio evidence.
Time: 75-100 minutes.
Evidence to upload: completed process timeline and short reflection.

The Process Is A Cycle

Design is not a clean line from idea to finished work. Research can change the problem. Testing can reveal that a prototype is solving the wrong issue. Strong designers use the process as a decision-making cycle.

Core Phases

Brief: define what the project is trying to improve and what constraints exist.

Research: collect evidence from people, places, products, spaces, and existing examples.

Define: turn evidence into a focused problem statement.

Ideate: create multiple possible responses before choosing one.

Prototype: make the idea testable through a model, sketch, mock-up, plan, or walkthrough.

Test: observe how someone responds and record what works or fails.

Refine: improve the design using evidence.

Present: explain the problem, process, decisions, and final outcome clearly.

Demonstrated Example

Project: compact creative learning pod.

Brief: create a small focused space for one learner.

Research: photograph the site, note noise, light, access, and storage needs.

Define: a learner needs a calm compact workspace with natural light and storage because the current setting interrupts creative work.

Ideate: sketch three layouts: window-facing desk, side-wall storage, and fold-down work surface.

Prototype/test/refine: make a simple plan or model, ask someone to review the route and storage, then adjust the layout based on what they notice.

Learner Task

Write your Week 1 problem at the top of the timeline worksheet.
Add the eight process phases.
Under each phase, write what evidence you will create.
Mark where you need feedback from someone else.
Name one risk that could weaken the project.

Pass Standard

A passable timeline shows the main phases and names evidence. A strong timeline shows how feedback and testing will change the work before the final portfolio.