My Process
While there is no one-size-fits-all solution for creating digital products, I've developed a process that efficiently addresses all critical components for building impactful digital experiences. My approach now integrates AI tools at every stage of development, particularly for rapid Vibe coding.
For example, during the Understanding phase, I leverage tools like Crayon for competitive intelligence, while the Design phase benefits from Leonardo.ai and Figma AI to quickly generate mockups and prototypes. In the Development phase, tools like Cursor and Replit accelerate the Vibe coding process, enabling faster iterations while maintaining quality. The Validation phase integrates AI-powered tools like Optimizely and Hotjar to gather user insights efficiently.
I view these AI-enhanced deliverables as specialized tools in my toolbox, selectively deploying them based on project needs while focusing on a unifying UX principle that justifies the product's features and ensures a cohesive user experience.
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Align on Brand Mission & Product Vision – Ensure all stakeholders share a unified understanding of goals.
Use Empathy Maps & Use Cases – Define user behaviors, needs, and pain points.
Conduct Stakeholder Interviews – Gather insights on expectations and constraints.
Leverage Competitive Intelligence Tools (e.g., Crayon, Semrush) – Understand market positioning and trends.
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Clarify Problem Statements – Translate research into clear, actionable problems.
Set Success Metrics – Identify how success will be measured early on.
Define Scope & Roadmap – Outline project boundaries and delivery timeline.
Balance Business Needs with User Goals – Prioritize features that satisfy both.
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Conduct Mixed-Method Studies – Use surveys, interviews, and contextual inquiries.
Apply AI Tools for Insights (e.g., Dovetail, Rev.ai) – Accelerate transcription and pattern recognition.
Run Focus Groups & Card Sorting – Explore mental models and information architecture.
Deep Dive into Market Research – Identify competitive features and gaps.
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Map User Journeys – Visualize user flows and pain points across touchpoints.
Create Personas & Storyboards – Ground design decisions in realistic user profiles.
Identify Pain Points – Prioritize areas for innovation or redesign.
Use AI for Data Analysis (e.g., Obviously AI, UXtweak) – Surface behavioral patterns efficiently.
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Start with Low-Fidelity Wireframes & Sketches – Focus on layout before details.
Build Prototypes Using Tools like Figma AI, Uizard – Rapid iteration and feedback.
Ensure Accessibility Compliance – Integrate guidelines from the start.
Handoff Seamlessly to Dev Team – Provide assets, specs, and logic in a clear package.
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Run Usability Testing with Real Users – Spot usability issues early.
Conduct A/B & Preference Testing – Determine which versions resonate best.
Use AI Validation Tools (e.g., Hotjar, Userbrain) – Track clicks, heatmaps, and scrolls.
Test for Accessibility and Performance – Guarantee inclusivity and efficiency.
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Plan a Phased Rollout with Feature Flags – Control exposure and mitigate risk.
Monitor Launch Metrics Closely – Track real-time KPIs and user feedback.
Align with Marketing and Documentation Teams – Ensure a coherent external message.
Prepare for Beta Testing with Tracking Tools – Use click/heat maps and scripted testing.
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Conduct a Go/No-Go Retrospective – Evaluate product fit and internal process.
Analyze Adoption & Usage Metrics (e.g., Pendo.ai, Maze) – Identify what’s working.
Collect Usability Feedback (SUS, Support Tickets) – Gauge satisfaction and pain points.
Identify New Opportunities – Use findings to fuel continuous improvement.