For a digital product or service to be truly successful, it is essential to create the perfect balance between business, development, and user needs. This is where Product Designers come in, acting as a bridge between the business and development teams to ensure that the final result is satisfactory from all perspectives.
Creating the Imperfect Balance Between Business, Development, and User Needs
Roland Fenyvesi
Design lead
What is a Product Designer Responsible for?
A Product Designer is responsible for mapping out business and user needs (Research), as well as for designing user experiences (UX) and interfaces (UI). Their role is to ensure that the product or service meets both user expectations and business objectives while also being technologically feasible.
Business Needs
Business needs are crucial for the product or service. These include increasing revenue, supporting business growth, market positioning, expanding the customer base, brand building, and improving operational efficiency. However, challenges may include excessive expectations, lack of funding, or the inability to articulate precisely what is desired.
Developer Needs
The development team must deliver plans that are technologically feasible. Designs should be finalized at the beginning of the development phase, and all technical challenges must be addressed. Documentation must be accurate and detailed. Challenges may include lack of communication, differing mindsets, technological limitations, and time constraints.
User Needs
User expectations include the ease, speed, and efficiency of using a product or service, as well as ensuring that it is error-free and secure. In addition to these, various challenges may arise, such as the desire for instant access, reluctance to wait, accessibility from different devices, transparent information, and affordable or free access.
How to Achieve the Perfect Balance?
Communication
Continuous communication and maintaining good relationships with all stakeholders are essential. The Product Designer must convey business and development needs and keep the dialogue open among the parties involved.
Compromises
All participants must be prepared for compromises, as they will be necessary. It is not always possible to meet every need, but the most important aspects must be addressed.
MVP Approach
Utilize the MVP (Minimum Viable Product) approach. Start with the most important features and gradually develop the product or service further.
Transparency
Be completely transparent with all stakeholders. Consult with them at every stage of the project to avoid misunderstandings and unexpected blocking factors.
Flexibility
We must accept that changes will always occur. We need to be flexible in modifying plans and accommodating and managing new needs.
Patience
We should be patient with one another. Balancing needs requires time and considerable energy.
Accept Imperfection
Accept that perfection will never be achieved. We must acknowledge our mistakes, learn from them, and continuously refine and develop the product or service.
Conclusion
In the world of digital design, achieving the imperfect balance requires a professional attitude, patience, and humor. Communication, collaboration, and flexibility are key to ensuring that all stakeholders are satisfied with the final outcome. Let us not forget that while it may not always be easy, by facing challenges and seeking solutions, we can always find the imperfect balance between business, development, and user needs.