How can you develop problem solving skills while working remotely?

as a design strategist, effective problem solving in a remote work environment requires a broader understanding. Use tools such as usability analytics, personas, and empathy maps to define the problem from the user’s perspective. Use online collaboration tools like Miro or Google Docs to share and collaborate on a defined problem with your remote team. This approach ensures shared understanding, promoting integrated problem-solving efforts that seamlessly integrate user needs and team perspectives.

First of all, define correctly the problem we are going to solve, because in my experience I have seen cases where the client defines an initial problem but then, after talking in depth with the stakeholders, we identify that the problem is even deeper and we redefine the objective of the project to make it more accurate to what their customers need.

When working remotely in UX design, clearly defining the problem involves understanding user needs and project goals within a potentially less structured environment. It requires effective communication, active information gathering, and a focus on core user problems to ensure successful design solutions amidst the distractions and logistical challenges of remote work. In essence, it's about staying grounded in user-centricity and effective communication while navigating the unique hurdles of remote UX design.

as a design strategist, approaching remote problem solving requires clear problem definition followed by cognitive techniques such as brainstorming and modeling. Use online tools to engage users for ideas. Evaluate ideas using criteria such as feasibility and applicability, implementation plan, and SWOT analysis. Use remote collaboration tools such as Zoom for virtual meetings, usability testing, and continuous feedback. This approach ensures a structured and inclusive process, which fosters innovation and effective problem solving in remote offices.

Based on my previous projects, after having defined the problem with the client, we make a Scope canvas dynamic to further define each of the important aspects of the project, from the client's point of view, then with the group of end users we conduct in-depth interviews about the problem that afflicts them and with that we gather all this information, discover insights and prepare the first version of our prototype to retest with our end users.

Generating and evaluating ideas while working from home in UX design involves fostering creativity and critical thinking within a remote setting. It encompasses activities like brainstorming new concepts, sketching prototypes, conducting user research remotely, and iteratively testing and refining designs, all while maintaining effective communication and collaboration with team members. This process demands self-discipline, resourcefulness, and the ability to leverage digital tools to overcome the physical distance from colleagues and users. Ultimately, it's about driving innovation and delivering impactful design solutions, even when not physically present in a traditional studio environment.

as a design strategist, In order to prepare your problem solving approach, the implementation phase involves planning using agile methodologies such as Scrum or Kanban. Online tools like Jira, Trello, or Slack help with collaborative project management. Iterative development, with a focus on MVP releases, allows users to get quick feedback. Metrics such as user satisfaction, retention and revenue growth are key to measuring impact. Tools like Hotjar, Google Analytics, and SurveyMonkey are used to collect data for regular monitoring. Collect and analyze usage data on a regular basis, and iteratively process data to ensure that the solution developed meets user expectations and addresses emerging issues.

Once we have the first prototype ready, we meet again with the clients, both internal, from the company, and with the end users (customers) to validate the proposal, collect their comments and feedback, to redesign the prototype and refine it according to their real needs.

Implementation refers to the ability to translate design concepts into tangible prototypes and products, even without the immediate feedback loop of an in-office environment. This requires strong planning, communication, and resource management to ensure smooth execution despite physical distance. Iteration, on the other hand, is the continuous refinement of designs based on user feedback and data. In a remote setting, this necessitates leveraging asynchronous feedback tools and actively seeking out user input to ensure designs evolve effectively. Mastering both implementation and iteration empowers UX designers to deliver successful products even when working from home.

as a design strategist, learn and grow problem-solving skills while working remotely through self-assessment, setting clear goals, and continuing to learn through online learning and networking. Ask for answers, reflect on experiences, and use critical thinking. Use collaboration tools, manage time effectively, and participate in online communities to generate ideas. Try different strategies, document your plan, and embrace a continuous improvement mindset. By combining these techniques, you can further improve your problem-solving capabilities in a remote work environment.

Finally, after all the information gathering process with internal and external customers, as well as with end users, we carry out the whole research process, to discover many insights that allow us to design the preliminary proposal. After the interaction of the prototype No. 1, we redesign and iterate again with the users, as many times as necessary (in my experience no more than 3 times) and finally we design the final version that allows us to deliver a complete product according to what the client needs. Throughout this process we discover hidden truths that allow us to know each specific type of user, which enriches our experience and knowledge in this interesting field of User Experience Design.

In the context of UX design, learning and reflecting while working from home involves continuously acquiring new knowledge and skills, even amidst the remote setup. This could involve online courses, industry talks, independent research, or even collaborating virtually with colleagues to share insights and feedback. It's about dedicating time for introspection to analyse past projects, identify areas for improvement, and adapt design approaches based on user feedback and evolving trends. Essentially, it's about maintaining a growth mindset and leveraging the flexibility of remote work to become a more effective and well-rounded UX designer.

The last recommendations I can give about this amazing world of design is to never forget that the client's vision is the most important, not only the external client or end user, but also the internal client involved in the process, which often generates a synergy with what the client needs and generates amazing solutions that really increase the positive indicators of the company and above all the client's satisfaction.