Science and data generate outcomes

The Scientific Method for Products

I believe that most methodologies we use today in product design and development stem from the scientific method - Agile, Design Thinking, Lean, JTBD, etc. I believe in nature and science to discover new information and ideas, to make new products and inventions, and to grow individuals, teams, and organizations. We use science every day over and over again in small ways and big ways, it's a natural approach to bring products to market.

Research

Hypothesize

Test

Analyze

Research (also referred to as discovery) is when deep understanding of needs is gained. Research can include both internal and external stakeholders.

In science, the hypothesis is the supposition, what do you suppose is needed/will happen? The term commonly used in product development for the hypothesis is the value proposition.

The test in the world of science is an experiment. In the product world, these experiments are prototypes PoCs, an alpha, a beta and even an MVP. Each has value in providing information back to the team.

Analysis is merely having a look at what happened with the test. Through data and strategic insight information is received to inform future endeavors.

Make an observation
Formulate an idea
Try it
Learn from it

Let's simplify it further

We use the scientific method nearly every time we have a cup of tea

Observation: That looks hot, there is steam
Research: The cup feels warm

Hypothesis: The tea is hot but might be ok to drink

Test: Sip

Analyze: $#%&@! HOT!!!

Results: I better wait a bit

Research is foundational to the Scientific Method and how we cultivate empathy

I have had the opportunity to pull together agile strategic approaches to research to support innovation and incubation. The programs provide both strategic (generative) and tactical (evaluative) research and are heavily influenced by Jared Spool. What I love about Jared is his practical and relatable approach to research and product design that supports outcomes, not amassing features which generally leads to technological debt and a fear of pivots.

Are we building the right thing?

Strategic and Generative

Are we building the thing right?

Tactical and Evaluative

Forming Hypotheses: Empower growth through Collective Intelligence

From research, information can be disseminated among cross-functional teams and to artificial intelligence to empower thinking. Collaborative sessions can be conducted to generate ideas, align thinking, and create enthusiasm and energy to move forward.

This is where the collaboration between humans and machines gets really exciting. AI may put information together in a completely different way than a human would, helping us to develop new ideas and approaches to innovation. If you have ever heard the phrase "there are no dumb ideas", this can be applied to AI as well as humans.