Product design and discovery
Discovery sprints, problem framing, prioritisation and validated prototypes that reduce the risk of building the wrong product.
Decide what to build before deciding how to build it.
5 deliverables, a 4-stage approach and 2 related technologies.
Overview
Most failed software projects did not fail on engineering; they built something nobody needed, or needed differently. Product discovery tests assumptions while changes are still cheap.
We run structured discovery: stakeholder and user interviews, assumption mapping, rapid prototypes and a prioritised roadmap tied to measurable outcomes.
What we deliver
- Problem statement and success measures
- Assumption map and validation plan
- Validated prototype
- Prioritised release roadmap
- Initial architecture and cost estimate
Use cases
Typical situations where this service is the right fit.
Before a major build
De-risk a large investment with a short, focused discovery phase.
Stalled products
Re-examine a product that has users but is not growing.
Internal digitisation
Decide which processes to digitise first.
How we work
The stages we follow. Each ends with something you can review.
- 01
Frame the problem with the people who feel it
- 02
List and rank assumptions by risk
- 03
Test the riskiest assumptions with prototypes
- 04
Translate findings into a scoped first release
Things to consider
Questions worth answering before you commit budget.
- Discovery outcomes can include "do not build this" — that is a success.
- Decision-makers should take part, not just receive a report.
Technologies and engagement
Technologies we often use
We choose the stack with you; this is a starting point, not a requirement.
Ways to engage
- Fixed-scope project with milestones
- Dedicated team billed monthly
- Ongoing support and improvement retainer
Industries
Frequently asked questions
Related services
UI/UX design
User research, information architecture, interaction design, prototypes and accessible visual design for web and mobile products.
IT consulting
Technology strategy, architecture reviews, vendor selection, build-vs-buy analysis and IT roadmaps for growing organisations.
Custom software development
Design and build of bespoke web, mobile and back-office applications — from first specification to production support.
Ready to talk about product design and discovery?
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