Designing can take a lot of time. Sometimes, if you look at something too much, you become too fixated. At several moments in the process it might be useful to have a review from someone outside of the group. A fresh approach to the design.
1. Define your design problem clearly for the layman.
2. Select and recruit a group of outsiders who represent the end user of the product or service.
3. Organize a space to have a session and make sure you have all the materials you might need (presentation, questionnaires, etc.)
4. Set up a presentation for your design concept.
5. List down useful questions to ask your reviewers.
6. Have a moderator that presents the design concept(s), asks questions and reviews the design(s) with the outsiders.
7. Collect notes and record the session.
8. Analyze results of the session.
WHEN
When design concept(s) have been selected and before working out too many details.
WHY
This method allows to get feedback on concepts by the target audience, allowing to modify the concept if needed.
NOTE!
Imagine presenting the concept to a kid. It should be easily understood by anyone.
OUTPUT
Insights on how the design concept is perceived by the target audience.
Next
Process feedback and see on which points you can improve your design.
Reference
SKOLNICK, Joan, et al. Through other eyes: Developing empathy and multicultural perspectives in the social studies. Pippin Publishing Corporation, 2004./