How Can Iterative Design Be Used
As iterative design has become more popular, its principles have been applied to many fields and disciplines. While it is primarily associated with software development, the process can be used for any type of product. The key is to set metrics in feedback sessions that indicate when a design should stop iterating and move on to another aspect of the product. This will help avoid wasting time on iterations that do not improve the product.
While the Iterative design process can be used in any phase of a project, it is especially useful when the initial client brief is vague or there are multiple ideas floating around. The ability to rapidly prototype and gather user feedback helps resolve misunderstandings much earlier in the process and ensure that only the most promising ideas are taken forward, saving both time and money.
Iterative design can also be useful for identifying issues before a product is constructed. While a product may be able to be constructed without a particular problem, it is much cheaper to find an issue during the design stage than to fix it after the fact. This can be especially true for complex products, such as aerospace or military hardware, where it is essential that any problems are identified prior to the construction of the final product.
How Can Iterative Design Be Used in Different Industries Or Domains?
The iterative design process is similar to the theory of evolution in that a more suitable design will advance through a series of trials and errors, while less desirable designs perish. This approach can be a useful tool for designers to use when attempting to create a new product that will succeed in a market where competitors have already established a strong presence.
In terms of usability, iterative design is particularly useful in that it enables the team to identify and correct any interface problems before releasing the product for general consumption. The iteration process can also be used to refine existing interfaces, providing a more consistent and intuitive experience for users.
The one drawback of iterative design is that it does not have a default definition of done, which means that the team may continue to iterate on a product long after the user has found it to be unsatisfactory. This can be costly, and the team should work to set clear milestones that determine when a product has reached a point of being considered finished.
Although iterative design can be used in any industry or domain, it is important to work with an experienced and flexible partner who can help guide the team through the process. The right partner can help to ensure that the iterative process is not impeded by a rigid timeline or scope that would make it impossible for the team to react to user feedback in a timely fashion. This is why it is important to have clear contracts in place with your vendor and be prepared to pay hourly rates if the project veers off course for any reason.