Visual Research: An Introduction to Research Methodologies in Graphic Design - Ian Noble and Russell Bestley

While reviewing research methodologies, I found a step-by-step design research process within Ian Noble and Russell Bestley’s Visual Research: An Introduction to Research Methodologies in Graphic Design.

The process is:

1. Define the design problem.
2. Ask whether the problem is significant and whether visual communication can contribute to reducing it.
3. Define the causes of the problem.
4. Define the target audience.
5. Begin divergent research.
6. Visually research the target audience.
7. Gather quantitative data.
8. Gather qualitative data.
9. Refine the design problem.
10. Agree design objectives.
11. Identify channels of distribution.
12. Ask whether those channels are affordable and effective ways of reaching the audience.
13. Design prototype graphics.
14. Test them with members of the target audience.
15. Evaluate whether the graphics are appropriate.
16. Test within a small-scale environment.
17. Re-evaluate the design objectives.