Partnering with design

Designers are focused on solving user problems through intuitive interfaces and seamless experiences, often thinking deeply about accessibility, usability, and visual hierarchy. To collaborate effectively with designers, invite them into the product development process early. Share user research, market context, and business objectives before design work begins. This context helps designers understand not just what needs to be built, but why it matters to users and the business. Early involvement also allows designers to identify potential usability issues before development begins.^[1] Respect the design process by providing clear requirements while allowing room for creative solutions. Avoid prescribing specific design solutions (like "we need a dropdown menu here"). Instead, explain the problem that needs solving and trust your designers to explore appropriate solutions. When providing feedback on designs, focus on how well they solve the identified problem rather than personal aesthetic preferences.