What do you do if your problem solving skills as a graphic designer need improvement?

1 Identify the problem

The first step in any problem solving process is to define the problem clearly and accurately. You need to understand what the problem is, why it exists, who it affects, and what the desired outcome is. You can use tools like the 5 Whys, the Problem Statement, or the SMART criteria to help you identify the problem and its scope. By doing this, you can avoid wasting time and resources on solving the wrong problem, or solving it in the wrong way.

2 Research and brainstorm

The next step is to gather relevant information and generate possible solutions. You can use various sources of data, such as client feedback, user research, market trends, industry standards, and best practices, to inform your design decisions and inspire your creativity. You can also use brainstorming techniques, such as mind mapping, SCAMPER, or the Six Thinking Hats, to explore different perspectives and generate diverse and original ideas. The key is to be curious, open-minded, and collaborative, and to avoid judging or dismissing any idea at this stage.

3 Evaluate and select

The third step is to evaluate the feasibility, suitability, and desirability of your potential solutions. You need to consider the criteria and constraints that apply to your problem, such as budget, time, resources, quality, and ethics, and compare the pros and cons of each option. You can use tools like the SWOT analysis, the Decision Matrix, or the Pugh Method to help you rank and select the best solution. The goal is to be objective, critical, and flexible, and to balance your intuition and logic.

4 Implement and test

The final step is to execute your chosen solution and test its effectiveness. You need to plan and communicate your actions, monitor your progress, and measure your results. You can use tools like the Gantt Chart, the RACI Matrix, or the Action Plan to help you organize and manage your implementation. You also need to test your solution with real users, gather feedback, and evaluate its impact. You can use tools like the Prototype, the Usability Test, or the A/B Test to help you validate your solution. The aim is to be proactive, adaptable, and responsive, and to learn from your mistakes and successes.

By following these steps, you can improve your problem solving skills as a graphic designer, and deliver more creative, effective, and satisfying solutions. However, remember that problem solving is not a linear or rigid process, but a dynamic and iterative one. You may need to go back and forth between the steps, or modify them according to the nature and context of your problem. The most important thing is to keep an open mind, a positive attitude, and a growth mindset, and to enjoy the challenge and the opportunity to learn and grow as a graphic designer.

5 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?