Brainstorming Approach: Expanding Ideas Through Narrower and Broad Perspectives
In the ever-evolving world of UX design, a new tool is making waves among designers and creative professionals. The More Specific - More General (MS-MG) ideation method, a technique that encourages shifting perspectives between granular details and broad concepts, is now available for free through an accessible online form.
This method, which is part of a popular newsletter that can be received via email, is designed to help break out of fixed thinking patterns and promote both depth and breadth in creative problem-solving. With over 315,000 designers already enjoying its benefits, it's clear that the MS-MG method is making a significant impact on the industry.
## What Is the More Specific - More General Method?
The MS-MG method involves two main phases: the More Specific phase and the More General phase. In the More Specific phase, designers focus on detailed aspects of the problem or solution, dissecting small features, user interactions, or specific pain points. The More General phase, on the other hand, invites designers to step back and consider the broader context, overarching goals, or the bigger picture.
Alternating between these perspectives helps uncover new angles, identify overlooked needs, and ensure solutions are both innovative and aligned with user and business goals.
## How to Use It Effectively in UX Design
To apply this method, follow these steps:
1. Define the Problem or Goal: Clarify what you’re addressing, such as improving the checkout process. 2. More Specific Phase: Break down the problem into smaller, specific elements. Gather detailed insights into user pain points through techniques like user interviews and usability testing. Generate ideas around specific features, UI components, or user behaviors. 3. More General Phase: Zoom out and consider the broader context. Visualize connections and relationships between ideas using tools like concept mapping or mind maps. Review the value proposition and business model to ensure ideas align with user needs and business objectives. 4. Iterate and Refine: Switch between specific and general perspectives as you ideate. Capture and organize ideas using visual tools or digital collaboration platforms. Validate and prioritize ideas through team feedback or prototype testing. 5. Align with User Mental Models: Ensure your solutions match users’ expectations by aligning with their mental models, revealed through research techniques such as user interviews, usability testing, and card sorting.
## Best Practices for Creative Projects
- Alternate Perspectives: Regularly shift your focus between micro-level details and macro-level goals to avoid tunnel vision. - Collaboration: Involve multidisciplinary teams to bring different viewpoints and expertise. - Documentation: Use visual tools such as concept maps or mind maps to capture and connect ideas. - Validation: Continuously test and refine ideas with real users to ensure they are both usable and valuable.
With the MS-MG ideation method now readily available, designers can unlock a world of possibilities, fostering creativity and ensuring solutions remain grounded in user needs and business realities. A video titled "Be Specific, Concrete and Physical" provides additional guidance on ideating in a specific and general manner. So, why not give it a try and see the difference it can make in your UX design projects?
[1] Nielsen, J. (1994). Usability Engineering. New Riders Publishing. [2] Brown, T., & Katz, B. (2009). Change by Design: How Design Thinking Transforms Organizations and Inspires Innovation. HarperCollins Publishers. [3] Schön, D. A. (1983). The Reflective Practitioner: How Professionals Think in Action. Basic Books. [4] Cooper, A. (2007). The Inmates Are Running the Asylum: Why High Tech Products Drive Us Crazy and How to Restore the Sanity. John Wiley & Sons. [5] Cross, N., & Smith, M. (2011). The Art of Focused Conversation: 100 Ways to Access Group Wisdom in Business, Government, and Community. Berrett-Koehler Publishers.
In the realm of UX design, the More Specific - More General (MS-MG) ideation method, a technique that encourages shifting perspectives between detailed aspects and broader context, can be used in conjunction with technology to promote user experience and UI design. By alternating between specific user interactions and general overarching goals, designers can uncover innovative solutions that align with user and business needs.
