Ep 1.5: Understanding the discover phase of design thinking

Check out the episode guide!

In this episode of Idea Work, we explore the discover phase of design thinking, the stage where you dive deep into the problem space, challenge assumptions, and gather insights that shape effective solutions. Learn how to “rip the brief”, plan meaningful research, navigate ethics, and know when to stop gathering data.Resources mentioned

• Design Kit – methods library (filter by inspiration)

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Timestamps

0:02 – Introduction
Welcome to Idea Work. Michael sets up the episode’s focus on the Discover phase of the Double Diamond and why deep research matters before jumping to solutions.

0:42 – Moving from client brief to discovery
Explains the reverse brief process, aligning expectations, and starting team research to understand the problem space without bias.

1:34 – Ripping the brief and mapping key terms
Breaks down broad terms like “health” and “international students” into subtopics using mind mapping and Post-it notes to reveal hidden assumptions.

3:58 – Developing a research plan
Covers blending qualitative and quantitative methods, choosing what’s realistic, and crafting clear research questions.

5:14 – Building a stakeholder map
Identifies key interviewees, emphasises diversity, and offers the principle that any research is better than none.

6:15 – Ethics, consent, and sensitive topics
Outlines how to create information statements, consent processes, and securely store de-identified data.

8:08 – Crafting and testing interview questions
Shares tips for semi-structured interviews, active listening, adapting questions, and using silence effectively.

11:24 – Selecting tools for research
Recommends recording, transcription, survey, and collaboration platforms, with advice on managing online tools like Miro.

14:01 – Secondary research and team coordination
Highlights reputable sources for background data, and how to divide research tasks effectively across a team.

16:09 – Knowing when to stop researching
Explains data saturation, project deadlines, and the natural blend between the Discover and Define phases.

18:24 – Wrap up and sign off
Reinforces the importance of deep discovery work and previews the upcoming episode on the Define phase.

Michael Walter is an educator, writer, ⁠⁠academic⁠⁠, ⁠⁠founder⁠⁠, improviser, and ⁠⁠musician⁠⁠. He explores the intersections of creativity, technology, innovation, and social justice, always with a deep curiosity about how humans grow and connect.