How do you sketch and model your design solutions?

1 Why sketch and model?

Sketching and modeling are not only useful for documenting your design process, but also for generating and exploring new possibilities, solving problems, and getting feedback. Sketching and modeling allow you to visualize your design in different perspectives, dimensions, and contexts, and to compare and contrast different alternatives. Sketching and modeling also help you to communicate your design intent, rationale, and requirements to others, such as clients, stakeholders, or collaborators.

2 How to sketch effectively?

Sketching is an efficient way to express design ideas without focusing on details or aesthetics. You can sketch on paper, a whiteboard, or a digital device, depending on your preference and availability. To sketch effectively, some basic principles should be followed, such as using simple shapes and symbols to represent the main features and functions. Different levels of detail should be used to show the hierarchy and importance of design elements. Additionally, different types of lines, such as dashed, dotted, or curved, should be used to show boundaries, connections, or movements of components. Annotations, labels, or notes can explain the purpose, function, or specification of design elements. Colors, shading, or textures can highlight or differentiate design elements or show materials, properties, or emotions of the design.

3 How to model effectively?

Modeling is a more detailed and realistic way of representing design solutions, using physical or digital materials and tools. You can model at different scales and levels of fidelity, from miniature to full-size and from low to high. To model effectively, you should consider the purpose and audience of your model, the resources and constraints, the features and functions, the aesthetics and ergonomics, as well as the feedback and iteration of your model. For instance, you should think about who you are presenting the model to, what materials and tools you have or need, what aspects of your design do you want to show or test, how your model looks and feels in relation to its context, as well as how you can evaluate and improve it based on data or comments collected.

4 How to sketch and model digitally?

Digital sketching and modeling can be advantageous compared to traditional methods, due to the ease of editing, sharing, and storing. However, they do require certain skills and tools that may not be accessible to everyone. To sketch and model digitally, you should select software or a platform that matches your needs and preferences; there are many options available. Additionally, you should learn the basic functions and features of your software or platform, such as manipulating shapes, lines, colors, or textures. Furthermore, you should adapt your sketching and modeling techniques to the digital environment, such as using a mouse or a stylus. Moreover, you should be aware of how to use the zoom, pan, or rotate functions as well as the undo and redo functions. Lastly, it is important to know how to export, import, or share your files.

5 How to sketch and model collaboratively?

Sketching and modeling are often done in teams or groups, as they can benefit from the diversity of ideas, perspectives, and skills. However, they also pose some challenges, such as how to coordinate, communicate, and cooperate effectively. To address this, it is important to establish a common goal and vision for your design project with agreed upon roles and responsibilities. Utilizing a shared platform or tool that allows for synchronous or asynchronous sketching and modeling is key. Furthermore, it is important to use a common language and notation that everyone understands and follows to convey meaning accurately. Respect and appreciation of each team member's contributions is also essential, as well as being open to constructive criticism and improvement. By following these tips and techniques, you can sketch and model more effectively, creatively, and collaboratively - ultimately leading to better design outcomes.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?