Double Diamond Model

Revision as of 11:47, 21 February 2021

Abstract

This article will present the Double Diamond Model, including the utilization of the concept and purpose of the model, and further reflect on belonging limitations and advantages of the method presented once applying it in a project management setting. Ensuring the optimal deployment of the model, into how the project is planned, managed and executed once addressing the various needs and concerns of stakeholders, balancing project constraints such as, scope, quality, and risk in various project circumstances and throughout the project life cycle for an optimal outcome.

The Double Diamond was launched by the British Design Council in 2004, as a part of the framework for innovation to deal with complex economic, social, and environmental challenges.[2] The model represents a comprehensive design process and includes key principles in order to achieve significant and long-lasting results for the right problem. The process consists of four stages, Discover, Define, Develop, and Deliver, divided into two Diamonds. The first diamond concentrates on understanding the problem and a problem definition, namely the Discover and Define phase, also referred to as the problem space. The second diamond concerns the problem-solving phase, namely, the Develop and Define phase, also referred to as the solution space. Both the problem and solutions are being approached from a divergent and a convergent approach, which each of the four stages is either characterized by.[2]

The Big Idea

Application

The Double Diamond model is a representation of a design process that presents four stages across two adjacent diamonds. The structure of the model is used to understand a given problem or need, and subsequently work out potential solutions for them. The first diamond in the model deals with problem definition and understanding of a problem field and contains the "Discover" and "Define" phase. The second diamond deals with the problem-solving phase and contains the "Develop" and "Deliver" phase. As a starting point, it can be expected to make several iterations of the different phases, as the process is not linear. Each phase is characterized by either a convergent or divergent approach. The divergent approach is characterized by opening many problems, investigating and investigating, and combining already known facts in new constellations. In contrast, the focus of the convergent approach is to want to narrow down opportunities or focus on a specific problem.[1]

The model can be used in design projects where a given problem or need is desired to be solved or addressed. As a starting point, the model can be used in connection with structuring a given project and due to the model being extremely versatile, it can be used in many circumstances regardless of the subject-specific context as a structuring tool to plan the project and specific activities within the given phase of the project. In parallel with the usual project management. When transitioning from phase to phase, it is necessary to perceive these as being gates for the course of action, ie. the work performed in the previous stage should be summarized and presented and an acceptance of the project's progress should take place.[2]

Discover

The first phase, Discover, is mainly a divergent research phase, and aims to define, investigate, and map the context of the original problem or vision. This can be done through various user surveys, study of trends, stakeholder interviews, and general gathering of knowledge from various sources. Finally, potential problem statements are formulated and based upon the examination. In connection with the preparation of this initial phase, the following methods can be used. Note that the suggested methods below are merely a recommendation of potential methods and is not an exhaustive list. - Five Why’s: Is a method to discover the base or multiple reasons for a given problems occurrence or existence.

- Mind Map: Is a method to map and visualize input and thoughts and their relations originated by a given topic.

- Participant observation: Is an ethnographic field research method, by both participating and observing a given environment and thereby acquiring relevant insights.

- Qualitative interview: Is an interview method concentrated on understanding and attaining special knowledge from the informant’s point of view.

- Stakeholder Analysis: Is a method focused on mapping stakeholders within a specific area of interest, analyzing their relationship with one another.

Define

The purpose of the define phase is to process and evaluate the collected data and based on this clearly define and limit a problem as a basis for further work. The identified problem is based and evaluated in terms of its relevance and scope. This stage is characterized by convergent thinking; however, it is important to still maintain a broad perspective while performing the preliminary activities. [1] The below listed methods is suggested to be incorporated once entering the Define phase.

- Cluster Analysis: Is a method used for organizing and analyzing information and data obtained from Interviews, Observations, etc. to gain insights when connections are formed.

- Challenge Map: Is a method which utilizes fieldwork information, such as quotes and pictures, to address and gain insights into a given problem or topic.

- How might we…?: Is a method used for framing the challenge, by simple asking “How might we…?.

- Ecosystem: Is a method to construct an overview of complex system or relationship by visualizing links between various elements, interactions, and effects.

- SWOT Analysis: Is a method used for investigating a solution or organization Strengths, Weaknesses, Threats, and opportunities.

Develop

In the Develop phase, the focus is now shifted from problem-oriented to solution-oriented, from a convergent to divergent approach. The phase aims to develop and re-evaluate one or more concepts that are valid in relation to the user and the expected deliveries, as well as technology and Business Case, based on the problems or used needs discovered in the former stages. [1] These activities can be done by incorporating some of the following methods. - Business Model Canvas: Is a method used to develop and describe business models for either projects or businesses.

- Classic Brainstorm: Is a method used to generate lots of ideas.

- Rapid Prototyping: Is a method used to generate several prototypes (unfinished / test version of a product, service of process) in a short time span, in order to develop, test and communicate concepts.

- User Journey: Is a method used to visualize the user experience of a given product or service, in order to communicate and validate a current product or service or a new concept.

- Service Blueprint: Is a method used to visualize the organizational processes which support the particular service user experience as well as new concepts.

Deliver

Based on the number of concepts developed in the previous phase, Develop, the Deliver phase must identify the best solution. The developed concepts are communicated, tested, and controlled, for example through prototypes. This part is done iteratively, so that feedback and experiences improve the solution in terms of meeting needs, value creation and feasibility. - User Test: Is a method used to test the usability and reveal deficiencies of a given concept, for example a physical product or digital platform, in relation to user needs.

- Idea Selection Based on Weighted Criteria: Is a method used to select a given concept based on a series preselected weighted criteria.

- Innovation Matrix: Is a method used to assess and select between various concepts based on particular criteria, in order to evaluate and compare the idea.

- Changeboards: Is a method used to visualize, support and structure development, evaluation, and communication of the concept.

- Pitch: Is a method used to communicate the concept and test the concept with users, by receiving feedback.

Limitations

PRINCE2 [4] Managing Successful Projects, emphasizes the importance of prioritizing stage transitions and project planning, so that the project board can handle and decide on the project's further course or completion, in relation to associated risk, uncertainty and achieved results. Although the Double Diamond Model presents a number of decision stages and general framework for a process structure, the model also encourages being iterative and, if necessary, jumping from phase to phase depending on the results obtained in the respective phase. Likewise, the Double Diamond model on its own is not adequate for planning and structuring a project and will therefore needs to be supplemented by a number of project management tools. In the same way as described in the Application section, it is necessary to continuously incorporate and combine various design and study methods and principles, as well as to understand and know when and how these are best used in the respective phase for the optimal result.

Furthermore, the model does not tell when and how one's work is satisfactory for the further work. The model does not name a time horizon or scope of the respective phase, so depending on the individual project, whether the phase is divergent or convergent, there may be variations in both the amount of work, time and necessary resources and experience. Thus, it can be difficult to assess whether the information collected and or the number of tests performed is satisfactory for progression in the project. This can easily lead to mistrust between the associated stakeholders as the clear plan for a completed project has not been determined, due to the lack of guidance in the Double Diamond model.

Annotated Bibliography

https://innovationenglish.sites.ku.dk/model/double-diamond-2/

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References

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