Summary
The panel discussion featured professionals addressing the challenges of integrating user experience design within government and corporate structures. They discussed the importance of communication and collaboration across departments to improve service design. Key points included the need for detailed documentation like journey maps, the value of engaging with stakeholders, and the integration of design thinking into Agile processes. The panelists shared experiences about overcoming political hurdles, fostering safe spaces for conversations, and the significance of empathy in understanding user needs and stakeholder expectations. Techniques for transcending silos, including shared APIs for work requests, and maintaining continuity in design teams were also highlighted. The discussion emphasized community building around design and iterating based on feedback.
Key Insights
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Detailed documentation facilitates shared understanding and engagement among stakeholders.
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Engaging early with policy and leadership is crucial for successful design integration.
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Creating safe spaces for candid conversations helps in addressing fears of potential backlash.
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Understanding stakeholder motivations can build stronger partnerships across teams.
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Implementing structured APIs for work requests can streamline communication and expectations.
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A/B testing can validate design decisions by showing their impact on user experience.
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Transcending departmental silos requires respect for different time zones and cultures in global teams.
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Fostering gratitude and recognition can enhance collaboration and empathy across functions.
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Continuous feedback loops benefit product development by involving end-users in the conversation.
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Professional development workshops can nurture a culture of design thinking in organizations.
Notable Quotes
"The consolidated view is really the invitation to help get people excited about what we've created."
"As a designer, I've had to learn a lot about policy to engage in deep discussions with stakeholders."
"Creating safe space for conversations is essential for honest feedback."
"We started with quick wins to demonstrate our design capabilities effectively."
"Engaging support teams in the design process can provide valuable insights into user needs."
"We need to teach others how to do design thinking, not just rely on a small team."
"Effective collaboration can be achieved through a culture of gratitude and recognition in teams."
"It’s crucial to remain flexible and iterate based on the feedback we receive from our stakeholders."
"Maintaining continuity involves keeping core design artifacts front and center across teams."
"Use simple, plain language in documentation to ensure it's accessible to the entire team."
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