Designers use mapping methods before, during, and even after they finish the traditional “creation” process. Some methods help clarify a problem before making begins. Other methods help designers understand people’s values, needs, and preferences. We have listed a range of mapping methods here, though you can always make up your own depending on your project’s needs.

Check out Nielsen Norman Group’s UX Mapping Methods Compared: A Cheat Sheet for an overview of popular mapping methods.

Dennis Cheatham

Associate Professor, Communication Design

Miami University

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