Great design solves the right problem and it’s critical to start off on the right track. Identifying the ‘right problem’ is often only achievable if the design process is engaged early enough with business development to matter. Design’s role is to ask questions, engage the key stakeholders and collect relevant data. It’s only then that design is empowered to create great solutions.
I was given an early copy of the book, The Think Big Manifesto, by Michael Port. I’m about half way through and it reminds me of two other books that I find myself referencing when I feel a little lost, overwhelmed or anxious about change: The Power of Now and The Four Agreements. All these books have something in common, which is basically… you are in charge of your happiness, satisfaction, career, life and you are your own worst critic.