Design Team Process Initiatives
In my role as a Product Design Manager, I've proactively taken steps to enhance processes within our design team, with a focus on fostering growth, improving communication, and emphasizing the value of design within our organization. Here's an overview of some key initiatives I've introduced. All linked resources are free for you to use and implement.
Career Planning Template
Acknowledging the significance of career development, I've created a template that prompts employees to reflect on where they want to go from a life and career perspective in the short, medium and long term. It’s important to understand their lives outside of work to make connections and account for other life changes that might be happening.
This template has ignited meaningful conversations within my team about individual career goals, and fostering discussions on how to achieve them. It serves as a valuable tool for setting objectives, tracking progress, and aligning personal growth with our team and company goals.
View Template
Process Mapping and Analysis
As part of our continuous improvement efforts, I facilitated a process mapping exercise where each designer outlined their design process. This exercise aimed to identify similarities, overlaps, strengths, and areas for improvement.
By collaboratively examining our processes, we aim to enhance our practices, open ourselves up to new methodologies, and ensure that we are working efficiently and effectively as a team, and have opportunities to learn from one another.
View Activity Template
Design Workshops & Sessions
I've initiated a series of workshops and informational sessions aimed at demystifying the role of design within our organization and highlighting its value to the business.
These educational sessions have deepened our team's understanding of the design process, its impact on product development, and its contribution to our company's overall success. Additionally, they've promoted cross-functional collaboration by fostering a shared appreciation for design principles.
Quarterly Retrospectives
I've instituted quarterly retrospectives, providing our team with a structured platform for reflection and improvement. These sessions encourage team members to openly share insights, identify areas for personal and collective growth, and brainstorm ways to implement best practices.
These retrospectives have promoted knowledge sharing, collaboration, and a culture of continuous learning, allowing us to strengthen our collective skillset.