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Pre-Design Exploration

Bridge the gap between requirements and design execution. Use Figr’s exploration tools to validate concepts, test assumptions, and establish design direction before detailed interface work.

Exploration Methodology

Test fundamental design assumptions:
1

Mental Model Testing

Validate that your proposed solution matches user expectations and mental models
2

Flow Feasibility

Ensure user journeys are logical and achievable within technical constraints
3

Value Proposition

Confirm the design approach delivers on promised user and business value

Rapid Prototyping Tools

1

Concept Sketching

Quick idea visualization:

Digital Sketching

Fast concept capture:
  • Low-fidelity wireframes
  • User flow diagrams
  • Screen relationship mapping
  • Interaction concept illustration

Collaborative Ideation

Team-based exploration:
  • Real-time collaborative sketching
  • Idea building and iteration
  • Cross-functional input integration
  • Consensus building tools
2

Interactive Prototypes

Concept validation through interaction:
3

Concept Testing

Validate ideas with real users:

Design Direction Establishment

Establish aesthetic direction:
Mood board and visual style exploration showing different design directions
Exploration areas:

Stakeholder Alignment

1

Concept Presentation

Communicate design direction effectively:
2

Feedback Integration

Incorporate stakeholder input:

Structured Feedback

Organized input collection:
  • Specific feedback categories
  • Priority level assignment
  • Impact assessment
  • Resolution planning

Collaborative Refinement

Joint improvement process:
  • Real-time concept adjustment
  • Alternative exploration
  • Compromise solution development
  • Consensus building
3

Decision Documentation

Record exploration outcomes:

Exploration Outputs

Design Brief

Comprehensive design direction:
  • Problem definition
  • Solution approach
  • Success criteria
  • Implementation plan

Prototype Library

Validated concepts:
  • Tested interaction patterns
  • Proven user flows
  • Visual style direction
  • Component foundations

Research Insights

Validated assumptions:
  • User preference data
  • Usability test results
  • Stakeholder alignment
  • Technical feasibility

Transition to Detailed Design

1

Design System Preparation

Ready design foundation:
2

Implementation Planning

Prepare for development:

Best Practices

Iterative Exploration

Continuous refinement:✅ Test early and often ✅ Embrace rapid iteration ✅ Document learning progression ✅ Remain open to pivoting ✅ Build on validated insights

Evidence-Based Decisions

Data-driven direction:✅ Validate with real user data ✅ Reference competitive insights ✅ Consider technical constraints ✅ Align with business objectives ✅ Plan measurable outcomes

Start Interface Design

Begin detailed interface design with validated concepts and clear direction.Building on Existing →