Our editorial perspective: Write down the problem first
Consider arranging a property viewing as a hypothetical example. Before designing a solution, we would describe one difficulty: who needs to do what, where the process becomes awkward and how that person handles it today.
The description should identify whose perspective it represents. Someone coordinating appointments may have different needs from someone visiting a home. For an initial trial, we would choose one situation and describe the improvement we want to investigate in plain language.
Ask about a real sequence of events
In an exploratory conversation, we would ask for a specific recent example. What steps were involved? Which details were missing? Who else needed to take part? The answers can help revise the original assumption before a substantial service is built around it.
Keep unanswered questions separate from confirmed observations. A friendly response to an idea does not establish how somebody would use it. Ask about the conditions they would need, its limits and a practical next step they could consider.
Give a small test one clear question
We suggest choosing a single assumption for the first test and stating beforehand what result would support or challenge it. Record what the test cannot establish as well. That creates a basis for deciding whether to continue, adapt the idea or investigate a different problem.
These are our own editorial observations. The 2020 interview does not describe today’s ailean product. Alex’s profile provides an introduction to his current work.