Understand

We begin by understanding the problem we are trying to solve. This means conducting research to understand the context, the stakeholders that are currently involved, the current circumstances of the problem and how the challenges are already being addressed.

We must understand an underlying problem before we can solve it.

What steps can we take to ensure we understand the context and complexities of a design project?

Understand

Use the tools and resources in this guidebook to accomplish the goals below. Once your design team has achieved these objectives, you will be in a strong position to advance to the next phase in your design process. Use the reflection tools in the Design Work Journal to evaluate whether your design team is ready to move to the next phase.

Get smart about the context, the stakeholders and the problem

Gather and review research that is relevant to the project

Align as a team around potential problems to solve

Discuss and share previous experiences and expertise on the team

Identify the other organizations and interventions already in the space

Articulate why this problem is worth solving

Surface solutions that team members have already imagined

Document your findings and share with others in the organization in order to get their feedback

Overview of understand phase

Mindsets of Understand phase

Work together to understand the context
Look closely to understand potential problems and opportunities
Stay optimistic that you can solve the problem
Hold back on solving the problem during this phase

Overview of Understand phase

The tools in the Understand Phase are designed to help your team create a shared understanding of the context around the challenge. During this phase, your design team will – prepare for the design work you will conduct during this project by exploring the context of the challenge.

Objectives of Understand phase

The goal of this phase is to get your design team aligned around the context of the problem as well as the framing of a problem. This ensures that the design work you conduct in the next phases is well-defined and connected to the larger challenges facing your community.