In my previous article from the 22nd DMI Academic Design Management Conference, The Success and Challenges of the Double Diamond in Studio Projects, I went into detail describing the nuances of the Double Diamond design process. One request from that publication was to provide details on the insight generation and development process that was discussed in that paper. The purpose of this paper is to cover just that.

Observational research is one of the methods designers and design students employ to gain user empathy, understanding and insights into the problem or opportunity. In the classroom studio the time and opportunity for going out into the field for observational user research is very limited. It is not uncommon for students to carry out their research and return with only a superficial understanding of the opportunity. I have used the Insight Worksheet for over six years with students and have seen good improvements in the quality of their insights, their understanding of context and their collaboration with their teams.

The paper will cover the unique definition of the elements making up the Insight Worksheet, it will discuss the pluses and minuses seen from its use in the design studio, share some examples, and share thoughts on next steps. The goal is for students to continue to care for the design process, to develop expertise with the design tools and methods so that they can continue to advance the ‘state of design thinking’ in their careers and in their professional practice.