Week 8
What? So What? Now What? (Driscoll, 1994)
Describe (give context of the situation I want to learn from): This week marked a pivotal moment in my Bloody Strong project, following feedback from the DEI partners. Initially, I felt discouraged when they suggested I move away from the certification aspect of the project, which I had been deeply invested in. However, after some reflection, I realised this could be an opportunity. Instead of focusing on certification, I have shifted toward facilitating workshops that still cover much of the same content, albeit in a simpler and more accessible format. The workshops will no longer involve the complexities of addressing HR and legal implications, which lightens the burden and makes the project easier to execute in the time I have left.
As part of this shift, I introduced a new physical prototype, conversation cards, designed to enable open dialogue between employees and employers. These cards address sensitive topics, such as menstrual equity, that might not otherwise be discussed in the workplace. This new direction feels right for the project and aligns with my strengths as a designer. I’ve always wanted to incorporate strong typographic elements into my project, and these cards provide the perfect opportunity to do so.
DIGITAL PROTOTYPE:
Conversation Cards - First Mock Up
What did you do (facts of the situation): This week, I made significant progress by creating 30 conversation cards in InDesign. I’m planning to print the first copy of these cards next week for user testing and peer feedback. I also visited Pronto Print, my local printing company, and confirmed they would be able to help with the production of the cards. This is a significant step forward, as I feel confident that I can execute these cards to a high standard, making them a fidelity prototype.
The feedback from Dianna was particularly helpful this week. After discussing my thoughts in response to the presentations last week, she encouraged me to trust my instincts and design in a way that would best showcase my skills. This conversation was reassuring, and it helped me regain confidence in my ability to handle the project’s direction. I now realise that, even if feedback feels confusing or disheartening at first, it doesn’t have to define my work. With the right mindset, I can view it constructively and use it to strengthen my design outcome.
How did it feel (feelings of the situation): At first, the feedback felt disheartening, especially with the shift away from certification. However, after reflecting and seeking advice, I felt optimistic and energised. This new direction feels aligned with my strengths as a designer. Speaking with Dianna helped reinforce my confidence in trusting my gut instincts, and I’m proud of the progress made this week.
Step back + look for patterns: Reflecting on the week, it’s clear that I tend to feel initially discouraged when feedback forces me to change direction. This was certainly the case with the partners’ suggestion to move away from certification. At first, I saw this as a setback. However, after allowing myself some time to process the feedback, I was able to reframe it positively. Leaning into my strengths as a designer, such as typography, helped me find clarity and a renewed sense of purpose. I also recognised the value of seeking advice from peers or mentors, as talking to Dianna helped me work through my doubts and confusion.
What went well: Several things went well this week. Shifting focus toward the workshops and conversation cards simplified the scope of the project, making it more manageable within the given timeframe. Designing a high-fidelity prototype for the cards feels achievable, and I’m pleased with the progress I’ve made in InDesign. Additionally, confirming that Pronto Print can assist with production was a huge relief.
What went badly: On the other hand, the initial discouragement I felt after receiving feedback did slow me down. I temporarily felt as though my project had been set back, particularly because I had invested so much in the certification aspect. Losing that element was challenging, but I now see that it has opened up new opportunities for the project.
Why: I initially placed a lot of value on the certification aspect, which felt like a big part of the project’s original direction. When that was taken away, I temporarily lost sight of the potential value in other aspects of the project, such as the workshops and conversation cards.
What could I have done differently: Looking back, I could have approached the feedback with more openness from the start, rather than seeing it as a step backward. I think reflecting on it earlier and seeking advice sooner would have helped me avoid the initial dip in confidence. Moving forward, I will try to view feedback as an opportunity for growth, rather than as a barrier.
Look for answers: In terms of finding answers, I plan to explore how I can consistently reframe feedback constructively and use it to enhance my project. I’m also thinking about how I can ensure that the workshops and conversation cards are engaging and relevant for both employees and employers. As I move into the testing phase, I will focus on gathering user feedback to ensure the cards are meeting the needs of my audience.
Ask for advice: For advice, I would like to learn more about how successful designers process challenging feedback and turn it into something constructive. I also want to explore techniques for enhancing the fidelity of my prototypes, as I want to make sure the conversation cards feel polished and professional.
My plan to improve (action plan for the future based on my reflections): Looking ahead, my plan is to continue refining and testing the conversation cards, using iterative feedback loops to ensure they are as effective as possible. Additionally, I will keep chipping away at my website. I am conscious that I have slightly neglected 302 work this week therefore in the next few weeks, I will dedicate a significant amount of time to revisit my 302 report and refine it based on the feedback I received (check-in 1). By balancing my time and prioritising appropriately between both papers, I hope to finish the semester strong.
Below is a visual summary of what I have worked on this week on my Miro. Re-iterating, I am still working within the protoptye phase and hope to begin to step into the test phase of my framework in the near future. Significant progress on my brand identity this week has set me up well to be able to move more quickly through my prototyping now.
References:
Borton, T. (1970). Reach, touch, and teach: Student concerns and process education. McGraw-Hill.
Driscoll, J. (1994). Reflective practice for practice. Senior Nurse, 13 (1), 47–50.