Product Design is more than just the final output, it is a process that requires problem solving, understanding and creativity. On paper, these attributes appear simple but are quickly lost in the intensity of the process, particularly when you are just starting out. For those that are struggling to maintain the vision and stay on track with their design the best place to turn is to books. There is an abundance of brilliant product design books out there but if you are just starting out here are a few ‘must reads’ to guide you.
- Creative Confidence by David and Tom Kelly is a fantastic example of a design book which allows you to develop a firm grasp of the foundations of design and understand problem solving as part of the design process. This book teaches you how to adopt an open mindset and creative approach to development and problem solving whilst as the title suggests, boosting your creative confidence!
- The second recommendation for those looking to focus their ideas is Sprint by Jake Knapp. This easy to understand step by step guide allows you to accelerate project outcomes whilst providing real world examples of products that were created using a ‘design sprint’. Born from the original methodology of Google, this book is perfect for those looking to expedite their ideas into a finished prototype.
- Finally, a more practical approach to product design comes in the form of Rework by Jason Fried and David Heinemeier; a great book to reset your approach to product design and business as a whole. Within a few pages, the authors allow you to start asking yourself key questions and to help cut out any unnecessary aspects of your business life. If you are a start-up looking for some good, no-nonsense advice from seasoned entrepreneurs this again, is a must read.
It’s important in any profession to stay up to date and informed of the emerging trends, but it’s also important to investigate and explore other points of view and other peoples motivations. By reading other viewpoints you expose yourself to new information, some of the greatest designers have taken inspiration from others.
This list is obviously by no means exhaustive – we will be updating this as we go, as it takes time to read more books! If you have any suggestions feel free to get in touch.
