#then it will be on to defining the problem statements and working on personas and user journeys and other deliverables

[antlerknives]

currently working on the early stages (ie. user research) of a spotify user interface redesign as a personal portfolio project and i am ridiculously excited about it

[rjzimmerman]

Excerpt from this story from Nation of Change:

President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Chris Wright, CEO of Denver-based Liberty Energy, as the next Secretary of Energy, raising alarm among environmentalists and climate advocates. Wright, a prominent figure in the fossil fuel industry and a major Republican donor, has long advocated for the continued use of oil and gas as essential energy sources. His nomination signals a clear pivot in U.S. energy policy, prioritizing fossil fuel production over renewable energy initiatives.

Chris Wright has built his career in the energy sector, leading Liberty Energy, a company specializing in hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, for oil and natural gas extraction. Wright is also a board member of a modular nuclear reactor company and has worked in various energy fields, including nuclear, solar, and geothermal. However, his staunch advocacy for fossil fuels has defined his public persona.

Wright describes himself as “a lifelong environmentalist” and has acknowledged that “climate change is a real problem.” Yet, in 2023, he dismissed the urgency of transitioning to renewable energy, claiming, “There is no such thing as clean energy or dirty energy” and “there is no climate crisis and we’re not in the midst of an energy transition either.” These statements reflect his skepticism toward mainstream scientific consensus on climate change and its connection to extreme weather events.

His industry ties extend to influential figures like Harold Hamm, the Oklahoma fracking billionaire and Trump adviser, who called Wright “a really, really sharp individual” and championed his nomination. Wright has publicly argued that fossil fuels are indispensable for global development, stating in a 2023 interview with CNBC, “The world runs on oil and gas, and we need that.”

Trump’s nomination of Wright aligns with his campaign promises to boost fossil fuel production beyond the record levels achieved under the Biden administration. Trump has also announced the formation of a new Council of National Energy, which will oversee energy permitting, production, and regulation. Doug Burgum, the nominee for Secretary of the Interior, will chair the council.

In a statement announcing Wright’s nomination, Trump praised him as “a leading technologist and entrepreneur in Energy” and credited him with launching “the American Shale Revolution that fueled American Energy Independence and transformed the Global Energy Markets and Geopolitics.”

The nomination has been met with polarized reactions. Industry leaders have celebrated Wright’s appointment as a victory for energy independence and market stability. Environmental groups, however, have condemned the decision, warning of its potential impact on climate change mitigation efforts and clean energy development.

Tiernan Sittenfeld, senior vice president for government affairs at the League of Conservation Voters, described the appointment as “not surprising but still appalling.” Similarly, Jackie Wong, senior vice president for climate and energy at the Natural Resources Defense Council, called Wright’s nomination “a disastrous mistake.” Wong emphasized, “The Energy Department should be doing all it can to develop and expand the energy sources of the 21st century, not trying to promote the dirty fuels of the last century.”

Patrick Donnelly, Great Basin director at the Center for Biological Diversity, expressed concern that Trump’s administration would become “the oiliest administration since George W. Bush.”

[yanderefairyangel]

Alright, so I decided to try to explain what are my gripes about Byleth's writing.

I am sure you are expecting me to say "it's because they are bland and have no personality". No.

In reality, the problem is the reverse. Byleth HAS a personality, and a pretty defined one at that. They are a rather stoic person, who emotes little, have problem to express their feelings to others... in short, a kuudere. This present in FEH, in Engage, in Hopes.

It's present in Houses as well, but the problem is that Houses refuse to acknowledge it. Instead, they treat Byleth as if they were an empty blanket for the player to create their own personality when they aren't. Byleth is a fixed character with a define personality so it doesn't work.

People have always compared Byleth to Joker from P5 and it's no wonder, 3H uses a lot of mechanic similar to P5. And the self insert is no difference. The one major difference is that unlike Byleth, Joker, despite having a personality of his own too, his more fluid in his intereaction with others so that the different options presented to the player can't really feel out of character for him to express. That mainly comes from how Joker is canonically someone who hides behind a persona but you get the idea.

Byleth however can be used saying things that simply don't fit their character and who they are. For example, Byleth is someone who doesn't really have a sense of humor nor understanding the concept of 2nd degree. So when the game let you choose an option that is "witty" or "teasing" or "joking" it feels out of character for them. Another example is with how they behave with Jeralt. We all know that when meeting Alois, Byleth can choose to deny being of Jeralt's family which result in lowering the "support point" we'll say of Jeralt. However, does it make sense for Byleth to even say that ? Answer, no. You know that when you play FEH, Engage, Hopes and even Houses. Their other intereaction make it clear that Byleth isn't one to actually say that to Jeralt. Sure they don't call him dad, but they care for him to much to ouright deny their relationship, even as a joke. Another one. When meeting Catherine, Byleth has the choice to say that they are better then her... does it make sense for them to say that ? No. Byleth is someone who is rather modest and not very competitive. To the game's credit, those cue exist only to "trap" the player in losing affection points but the problem is that they look too way out of character for Byleth to even say in the first place.

For example, in Goody two shoes, you also need to watch out what you say otherwise your level of suspicion will rise up or you migh even be killed on the spot. But all the different choice option actually make sense for Elise to say, for what kind of character she is, it fits her personality either way. For example, when you spot Eugen's horse and that the villagers doesn't believe you because it disappeared, the result of insisting in telling the truth result in a raise of suspicion from the villagers but it make sense for Elise to actually insist since she is presented as a rather tomboyish stuborn and arrogant girl. However, she also ending up to refuse to tell them the truth and backing up from some of her statements also make sense, and it mainly comes from the phrasing and how her cue are written to fit her character.

In Hopes, Shez got the same treatement. In Houses, Byleth didn't. So it resulted in their personality feeling very inconsistent, and making most of the character's reaction and Byleth's "character developpement" resulting in being shallow.

For example, Byleth's character arc is them slowly learning how to emote and show their emotions. An example is during the Battle of the Lion and The Eagle. When you win, the house leader will point out at Byleth smiling as being "rare". Ok. Now imagine that you mainly choosed the "witty" cue, the "teasing" one resulting in a Byleth that actually seems to be rather teasing and joking type : does this work anymore ? No. It doesn't. And I'll also add this but F!Byleth being a little more "emotive" then her Male counterpart kind of contribuite to weakening this progression.

Another problem is the "support points". Back to P5, you had actual social event that were entirely linked to the gameplay and that actually helped both Joker's characterization and contributed to give stakes to the player in trying all possible cue and optional dialogue by having different endings. 3H doesn't have that and the progression feels artificial as this doesn't really matter since you still have other way to unlock support with your character such as the battlefield. That and the fact that you don't have supports with a lot of characters when needed. Jeralt for example. You can intereact with him in the monastery but those are limited to rather quick dialogue and Byleth's silence kind of create a distance and cold feeling when seeing them intereact, mainly because unlike for the students who are supposed to progressively get attached to Byleth, he is supposed to have know them since forever. And that's where being the Avatar comes into play to ruin their relationship. To justify Byleth's lack of knowledge on some matter, the plot justifty it by "yeah, Jeralt sheltered them". A knowledgable powerful mercenary, who lived like this since childhood and is feared as the "Ashen Demon"... doesn't know sheet about the continent they live in..... wow... And blamming in Jeralt just make him appear as a terrible dad when he actually isn't, from his intereaction with Byleth you see he is an ok dad, trying and actually caring for Byleth even if he too isn't very good at showing his feelings. But this excuse is just... bad. Robin and Alear had amnesia, Corrin had being kidnapped and kept in a tower, Joker had comming from the countryside,... Byleth's excuse just feels convoluted. And you can't even claim that they are stupid but because all the other iteration of Byleth and 3H itself showed Byleth is actually very clever. So the idea that like Shez, whose ignorance is due to the fact that they are canonically an imbecile doesn't work for Byleth. And even acting like Byleth actually knows what's happening in Fodlan doesn't really matter when the character are going to exposition dumb you... and that it can lead to further confusion as the plot progress.

And probably the funniest example of 3H's inconsitencies.... Byleth's birthdate. At the begining of the game, you have the possiblity to choose a birthdate for Byleth... and if you do that, you can create a plot hole because turns out Byleth already has one. It's the 20th of September. And I remind you that Byleth is supposed to not know they age because they never celebrated their birthday.... so how do they know their birthdate ? How do they not know their age when they can just count ? People usually explain it as "Jeralt lied about Byleth's birthdate so they player can choose it" but Sothis reaction made it clear that it's not the case. And I know people explain it as Sothis is Byleth's consciousness, their recollections and can't remember anything so she believe that"... no. You can see it from the tone, you can see it from the phrasing. It's genuine. And also, Sothis isn't Byleth's consciouness and she has her own memories as demonstrated by 3H itself and she also admitted to not know about Byleth's life, so it's obvious she actually doesn't have acces to Byleth's memory nor consider what Byleth holds as truth to be true for her, that's even why she can disagree with Byleth ! Another evidence of that is the line you can choose when introuding yourself to Sothis. You can choose "I am a demon" and would you say that Sothis will call you a liar... even though, Byleth is saying the truth. They are the Ashen Demon. Sothis's answer kind of shows that she doesn't have access to Byleth's consicouness ! And even then the game doesn't want to acknowdlege that so I don't think it was meant to be a lie on Jeralt's part. Really. And if Jeralt lied about their birthday, then it makes the whole "we dont know Byleth's age" all the more convoluted because if they know their supposed birthdate, then they should logically believe to be around a certain age ! If they celebrated their birthday, then they must have an idea or at least a fake age !

Also, when people are saying that Sothis is Byleth's conciousnes, this means that things Sothis is supposed to remember will feel familiar to Byleth, not vice versa. Sothis is never shown to be familiar with things that Byleth remember well !

Also, it should be noted that if after the timeskip, Byleth's birthday is to be celebrated... you celebrate the date that you choose, not the one that Byleth is supposed to have discovered to their actual birthdate. And that in their character data, it will still remain the same. The fact that their actual birthday is the 20th of Horsebow Moon is never acknoweldge, never do we have Byleth and Sothis ponder about it or learn why this date matter

AND that in Hopes.... they are somehow aware of their birthdate. Even though Jeralt didn't told them a lot of things common to in Houses. And we are never told what exactly would push Jeralt to give them their actual birthdate... but we also are never told that Jeralt lied to them...Do you see what I mean by being an Avatar makes everything about Byleth very convoluted ? If you actually need to try to find a resonning that is never explained in the original game or at least based ont hings very much established, it result in you doing the writer's work to fix something !

And about the justification for how they behave... well. Here is the thing. In P5, Joker is canonically established as hiding behind a certain personality and reveal his "true self"only in the metaverse so it actually allows you to choose certains option without feeling OOC because you are aware Joker is hiding behind a mask and also because Joker's main character trait, sense of justice and defiance, are traits that can easliy blend with most of the cue that are avaliable. That's not the case with Byleth's character trait. Stoic, emotionelss, that's what is justified by the "you are the child of an artificial life bearing the soul of the Goddess and the crest is the reason why you don't emote as you have no heartbeat". This means that some of your choices won't fit this personality. For my case, I would only choose what I though Byleth would say. What was character fitting of them. Needless to say, it resulted in some of their possible cue appearing to me as OOC, especially after playing Hopes.

Byleth is a fully established character, like Shez and they are even charaterized as foil to each other, but unlike what Houses did for Byleth, Hopes never pretended that Shez was an empty blanket ignoring the blantant characterization waiting for them.

And that's hurting Byleth's character developpement as well as many things being rushed. Jeralt's death for example. It's supposed to be the first time Byleth cries, it takes a whole chapter and then... it doesn't matter anymore at some point. This is supposed to "stay relevant" as in AM Byleth's supposed to still be after the Agarthans or in CF where Hubert is going to have a cue telling that you are actually angry at them but should be patient.... and that's it. It kind of feel like Jeralt's death was pointelss for Byleth's character as it doesn't develop them. You wanna know who did it way better ? Engage. Even though we spend like 2 minutes with Lumera before she dies, she won't stop haunting the narrative, she is Alear's main motivation and we get to learn more about how much Lumera mattered to Alear's live, making the void creating in their life by her dead all the more striking, even more so in 2nd playthrough. Jeralt doesn't get that. And it's mainly because of how little the few intereaction with have with him and Byleth shows the extend of their relationship. And the fact that you can choose some of their cue end up making it feel disingenuinous. We will feel for Byleth and Jeralt but... that's it. Eve, Awakening did a better job, and this mainly comes from how Chrom spoke of his relationship with Emeryn and have a chapter dedicated to that. Byleth doesn't have the possibility to talk about how much Jeralt meant to them and realizing the void left in their life.

Heck, even Hopes did it better. This is one key moment that got left and not fully explored, like the parallel between the 3 battle of the Eagle and the Lion since...this chapter post war doesn't exist in some route...yeah..

Another little problem I have is that the Academy phase isn't really excting. And here is the idea : normally, you are in peace phase right ? So why is it that the only moment we can spend with the students are class and mission ? Yes, I know there are the social links but going with the idea that the students aren't shown all spending time together bonding and that it's instead relegated to the supports between 2 character so when we are supposed to believe Byleth is spending good time with their students, it feels empty. In fact, most of the light hearted moment in 3H sometimes feels kind of bleak and or weak because of this. So it's kinda hard to see Byleth fufilling themselves as a teacher even though we know they would like that since Byleth dislikes killing... since we do nothing but that. Running in circle, solving mysteries Scooby gang style.

And this mainly comes from the fact that Byleth is supposed to be a guide figure to the Lords and students and get some of their spotlight lost to them. People often try to defen Byleth saying that a character staying static isn't a bad thing and yes... but this wasn't what they tried to do with Byleth. They did that with Shez, but Byleth is supposed to have a character developpement, it's just that it's rushed and sloppily done because they have to hand their spotlight to the lords characters.

Finally, for a game like 3H the sort of character/protag they choose for Byleth doesn't work. It's a game aimed at discussin politics but politics is something that is active, not passive and where each of you choices matter. Byleth is made passive and only one or maybe 2 of their decision matters to the game. And that's it. This makes some of their "guidance" towards the student feel empty.

And also, I am not saying this to sheet on Byleth cause I actually like Byleth and that's because I am actually able to see that they have a personality and a real character, but that the way 3H handled them greatly affected their writing as well as 3H's writing in general.

But it should also be said that while I think they did a better job with Shez when it comes to character writing, it's not the personality that is a problem. Being quiet and stoic is a personality. The problem is the execution : whereas Shez is able to rephrase some of the cue in their own way giving a sense of character, Byleth can't. And the silent is here not doing them much favor.

And also, what I said about Byleth not working as a protag for the type of game that 3H tried to be also applies to Shez because both are made way too passive. But I might dwell more on that another day

[coderower]

What is the UX Design Process? A Complete 8-Step Roadmap

Crafting a product that users love isn’t just about stunning visuals—it’s about delivering an experience that feels effortless, intuitive, and enjoyable. That’s where User Experience (UX) Design comes into play. Whether you're building a sleek mobile app, a complex enterprise platform, or a stylish e-commerce site, how your users feel while interacting with your product can define the success—or failure—of your brand. 

Great UX isn’t magic; it’s method. Behind every app you can’t stop using or website that “just makes sense” is a clear, strategic process. It’s not guesswork. It’s research-driven, user-focused, and carefully crafted. 

In this ultimate guide, we’ll break down what UX design really means and walk you through a powerful 8-step UX roadmap that helps transform good ideas into unforgettable digital experiences—one click at a time. 

What is the UX Design Process? 

The UX Design Process is a systematic, iterative approach used by designers and product teams to understand user behaviors, define challenges, conceptualize solutions, and create meaningful interactions through intuitive interfaces. Unlike simply designing for aesthetics, UX focuses on how users feel, behave, and accomplish goals when engaging with a digital product. 

This process ensures that the final product not only looks good but is also usable, accessible, and efficient. A good UX design is backed by research, usability testing, and a clear understanding of user needs. It bridges the gap between technology and human interaction by enhancing both usability and customer satisfaction. 

Why is UX Design Important? 

First impressions matter: A user’s first impression of your product forms within seconds, and a poorly designed interface can instantly turn them away. A seamless experience keeps users engaged and more likely to return. 

Reduces development costs: A well-researched UX design process uncovers usability issues early in the product life cycle. This reduces the need for costly revisions during or after development, saving both time and money. 

Boosts retention & loyalty: When users find a product helpful, easy to navigate, and enjoyable to use, they’re more likely to return regularly and recommend it to others. This builds customer loyalty and long-term trust. 

Increases conversions: Clear navigation, smooth processes, and intuitive interactions encourage users to complete actions—whether that’s signing up, making a purchase, or requesting a quote—leading to higher conversion rates. 

In a nutshell, a strong UX design process helps you deliver value at every step of the user journey. 

The Complete 8-Step UX Design Process 

Let’s now walk through the complete 8-step process that experienced UX professionals use to craft engaging and user-friendly digital experiences. 

1. Understand the User (User Research) 

Every effective UX journey begins with understanding your users deeply. This involves getting to know their behaviors, motivations, needs, pain points, and the challenges they face in their daily lives. Without this fundamental knowledge, it's nearly impossible to design a product that truly resonates with them. 

Tools & techniques used at this stage include: 

Surveys and questionnaires: Gather direct input from a large pool of users about their needs and preferences. 

Interviews and user observation: One-on-one sessions offer qualitative insights into real behaviors. 

Competitor analysis: Analyze other platforms users are engaging with and evaluate what works and what doesn’t. 

Analytics and heatmaps: Quantitative data helps you understand how users interact with existing products or websites. 

The outcome of this stage is typically detailed user personas—fictional yet data-backed profiles representing different user types, helping designers empathize and design more effectively. 

2. Define the Problem (Problem Statement & User Journey) 

Once you have a clear understanding of your users, it’s time to narrow down the problems they’re facing. This is where you translate raw user research into actionable problem statements. Defining a problem properly allows the team to remain focused and aligned throughout the design process. 

Ask yourself: 

What are the major pain points your users are experiencing? 

At which step of the interaction do they face the most frustration? 

What barriers prevent them from achieving their intended goals? 

You can create user journey maps at this stage to visualize how users interact with the product step-by-step. These maps help pinpoint problem areas and identify opportunities to improve the experience. 

3. Ideate Solutions (Brainstorming & Sketching) 

Armed with insights and clearly defined problems, it’s time to start thinking about solutions. This phase is all about creativity and quantity—generating as many ideas as possible without worrying too much about feasibility at first. 

Techniques to encourage idea generation: 

Crazy 8s: Designers sketch 8 different ideas in 8 minutes to spark diverse thinking. 

Mind mapping: Use a central problem and branch out various solution paths. 

Brainwriting: Each team member writes ideas silently, then passes them around for others to build upon. 

This collaborative environment fosters innovation and often results in creative solutions that would be overlooked in a conventional setting. 

4. Create Information Architecture 

Information architecture (IA) refers to the organization and structure of information within your product. If users can’t find what they need quickly, they’ll abandon your product no matter how beautifully it’s designed. 

A well-thought-out IA ensures: 

Logical navigation: Information is grouped and labeled in a way that makes sense to the user. 

Intuitive searchability: Users can easily locate what they’re looking for using categories or search bars. 

Efficient workflows: Users complete tasks with minimal effort and confusion. 

Sitemaps, content hierarchies, and user flows are all important artifacts created during this stage. 

5. Build Wireframes 

Once you have the structure in place, the next step is to create wireframes, which are basic, low-fidelity visual representations of your digital product. 

Wireframes focus on: 

Layout and positioning: How elements like buttons, menus, images, and content blocks are placed. 

Content hierarchy: Making sure the most important information grabs attention. 

User interaction pathways: Defining how a user will move from one screen to the next. 

This stage helps stakeholders visualize how the final product might look and function—without the distraction of colors or branding. 

6. Create UI Designs (User Interface Design) 

After finalizing wireframes, it's time to inject life into them by adding color, typography, branding elements, icons, images, and visual polish. This is where UI/UX design work truly shines—making your product not only usable but also aesthetically pleasing. 

Key UI design considerations include: 

Consistent color palette: Enhances brand identity and readability. 

Typography choices: Legible fonts, appropriate sizes, and consistent spacing. 

Clear call-to-actions (CTAs): Buttons that are easy to spot and encourage clicks. 

Visual hierarchy: Guides users to the most important elements on each screen. 

The visual design must enhance, not hinder, usability—ensuring accessibility for all users, including those with disabilities. 

7. Build Interactive Prototypes 

Before any development begins, you need to test your design ideas in the real world. Interactive prototypes serve as clickable, semi-functional models of your product, allowing you to simulate the user experience and identify friction points early. 

Prototypes help in: 

Validating ideas with users or stakeholders: Let users navigate through tasks and gather real-time feedback. 

Highlighting usability issues: Find out where users click, hesitate, or get lost. 

Demonstrating product flow: Useful in presentations or pitches to investors and clients. 

This step ensures that your final product aligns with user expectations and reduces expensive changes during development. 

8. Test and Iterate (Usability Testing) 

Usability testing is the final and most crucial stage of the UX process. By observing how real users interact with your prototype or product, you can identify what’s working and what needs refinement. 

Common methods include: 

Remote usability testing: Users test your prototype from different locations. 

A/B testing: Compare two versions to see which performs better. 

Task-based testing: Assign specific goals to users and analyze how smoothly they complete them. 

Heatmaps and click tracking: Understand where users focus their attention or struggle. 

Once the issues are identified, iterate your design—update, refine, and test again. Remember, UX design is a cycle, not a straight line. 

UX Design is a Collaborative Effort 

UX design isn’t a solo mission. It involves the collective effort of cross-functional teams. Designers, developers, product managers, marketers, and users all play a role in crafting the experience. 

Product managers set goals and define user needs. 

UX designers bring the experience to life. 

Developers code the vision into reality. 

Marketing teams ensure brand messaging aligns with user experience. 

Users offer feedback that fuels continuous improvement. 

When these roles work together harmoniously, the result is a product that delights users and achieves business success. 

Real-World Applications: Why the UX Process Matters 

Let’s say you’re creating a grocery delivery app. Without UX planning: 

Users may find it hard to browse or search for products. 

The cart may be hidden or difficult to access. 

The checkout process might be lengthy or confusing. 

With a thoughtful UX design process: 

Products are categorized clearly with filters and sorting options. 

The cart is always visible and easy to manage. 

The checkout is seamless, guiding users step-by-step. 

This leads to higher user satisfaction, fewer complaints, and a boost in customer loyalty. 

CodeRower: Elevating UX through Smart Software Solutions 

When businesses want to implement an efficient and powerful digital product, choosing the right partner is crucial. That’s where CodeRower steps in—a highly regarded software development company known for building user-centric solutions that are elegant, scalable, and robust. 

CodeRower doesn’t just write code—they understand how users think and behave. Their expert UI/UX designers and development teams work hand-in-hand to deliver solutions that blend cutting-edge design with flawless functionality. 

From startups needing MVPs to enterprises reimagining digital platforms, CodeRower offers: 

Strategic UI/UX Design Services 

Agile Web and App Development 

MVP Prototyping & Ideation 

Tailored Software Products 

Their commitment to following the UX design process ensures every digital solution they deliver feels intuitive, natural, and aligned with user goals. 

Conclusion 

The UX design process isn’t a linear checklist—it’s a journey that evolves with user feedback and changing needs. In an age where user attention is limited and competition is fierce, creating a meaningful and smooth experience is the most effective way to stand out. 

By following this comprehensive 8-step roadmap, you can: 

Build digital products your users love 

Improve retention and engagement 

Avoid costly design errors down the line 

Remember, the best designs don’t just look good—they feel right. 

FAQs 

Q1. Is UX design the same as UI design?  No. UX design focuses on the overall user journey and experience, while UI design is about visual elements and aesthetics. 

Q2. Why do startups need UX design?  Startups need to ensure early traction and reduce churn. UX helps validate ideas, build usable MVPs, and improve customer experience from the start. 

Q3. What tools are used in the UX design process?  Popular tools include Figma, Adobe XD, InVision, Balsamiq, and Sketch. Each supports different stages of the process like wireframing, prototyping, and testing. 

Q4. Can a software development company handle UX too?  Yes. Firms like CodeRower specialize in both development and UI/UX design, offering end-to-end solutions for digital products. 

[aiprotoboost]

Market Fit or Flop? How to Validate Your Idea Like a Pro With ProtoBoost.ai

Launching a new product or startup is exciting — but also risky. Countless entrepreneurs pour time, energy, and resources into ideas that never quite take off. Why? Because they skipped the most crucial step: idea validation.

Before you spend money on development, marketing, or branding, you need to validate your idea. Will real customers actually want what you’re building? Is there a true market fit? That’s where ProtoBoost.ai comes in — a cutting-edge startup idea validation platform that leverages artificial intelligence to guide your decision-making with data, not guesswork.

In this blog, we’ll explore the full idea validation process, why it matters, and how you can use ProtoBoost.ai to determine if your idea is headed toward market fit — or flop.

🎥 Watch the ProtoBoost Demo:

ProtoBoost Idea Validation System Demo

Why Idea Validation Matters More Than Ever

We live in a time where launching a startup is easier than ever — but succeeding is not. Studies show that over 90% of startups fail, and one of the top reasons is building something no one wants. That’s why business idea validation is the single most important step before development.

Without idea validation, you risk:

Wasting months of work on a flawed concept

Burning through your budget with no ROI

Launching into a market that’s either too small or oversaturated

Solving a problem that doesn’t exist — or isn’t painful enough

The idea validation process protects you from all this. It helps you test assumptions, understand your target audience, and shape your offering based on real feedback.

What Is ProtoBoost.ai?

ProtoBoost.ai is a next-generation platform designed to help entrepreneurs, product managers, and founders validate their business ideas using AI-powered insights. It speeds up the validation process by replacing guesswork with data-driven decisions.

Here’s what sets ProtoBoost apart:

✅ AI-generated customer personas and feedback loops

✅ Competitive landscape analysis

✅ Problem-solution fit scoring

✅ Prototype generator (low and high fidelity)

✅ Market demand and trend analysis

✅ Actionable reports in minutes

Whether you’re in the napkin-sketch stage or preparing for MVP development, ProtoBoost helps you validate your idea like a pro.

The Idea Validation Process With ProtoBoost.ai

Let’s break down how ProtoBoost guides you through the startup idea validation journey.

1. Define Your Problem and Solution

Start by inputting your startup idea. What problem are you solving, and how? ProtoBoost then uses this input to generate:

A structured Problem Statement

A refined Value Proposition

A suggested Target Market

This step ensures your idea has clear intent, relevance, and potential demand.

2. Understand Your Audience

ProtoBoost generates AI-powered customer personas based on your input. These personas include demographics, pain points, motivations, and behaviors.

You’ll know exactly:

Who your audience is

What frustrates them

What solutions they’re seeking

How likely they are to adopt your product

This step alone can reshape your entire strategy.

3. Validate Market Demand

Using web-wide trend analysis and competitive benchmarking, ProtoBoost scans for existing interest in your solution.

It delivers insights like:

Related search volume trends

Existing products in the market

Customer reviews and pain points from competitors

White space opportunities

This data is critical in determining if your idea has market fit potential or if it’s already saturated or too obscure.

4. Score Your Idea

ProtoBoost delivers a Market Fit Score, combining factors like:

Problem relevance

Solution uniqueness

Audience interest

Competitive saturation

Monetization feasibility

If your score is high, you’re on the right track. If it’s low, the platform offers recommendations to pivot or refine your concept before investing more time or money.

5. Create Prototypes Instantly

Once your idea shows promise, ProtoBoost lets you generate a prototype — either a landing page, product mockup, or app wireframe — within minutes.

This allows you to:

Share with potential users

Conduct A/B tests

Collect feedback

Validate design and messaging before coding begins

This is rapid prototyping on autopilot.

6. Share and Gather Feedback

ProtoBoost includes features to gather real user feedback from the prototype stage. You can launch surveys, get comments, and analyze user behavior.

This creates a full feedback loop that further strengthens your business idea validation efforts.

Real-World Use Case: ProtoBoost in Action

Imagine you’re building an app that helps remote workers manage their mental health through AI-guided exercises.

Using ProtoBoost:

You enter the idea and get a validated value proposition

It generates 3 ideal customer personas: young professionals, freelancers, and startup founders

You receive market demand data showing increasing interest in “AI mental wellness”

The competitive analysis reveals gaps in the current apps’ feature sets

ProtoBoost scores your idea at 82% viability

You generate a working prototype and get feedback from early testers

Within days, you know your idea is worth pursuing. No expensive consultants. No six-month MVP development gamble. Just clarity.

Key Benefits of Using ProtoBoost.ai

Saves Time: Skip months of manual research and feedback loops

Reduces Risk: Avoid building something that no one wants

Enhances Investor Pitching: Use data-backed insights to convince investors

Empowers Smart Iteration: Quickly pivot based on feedback and scoring

Speeds up Go-to-Market Strategy: Get to market faster with validated direction

Validate Your Idea Today — Don’t Guess, Know

If you’re a startup founder, innovator, or product lead, there’s no excuse to build blind anymore. The idea validation process doesn’t have to be complex or expensive. With platforms like ProtoBoost.ai, it’s streamlined, intelligent, and powerful.

Whether you’re still in ideation or already halfway into development, it’s never too early (or too late) to validate your idea. It could be the difference between a market fit and a costly flop.

Final Thoughts

A brilliant idea is just the beginning. Success depends on execution — and execution depends on validation. With ProtoBoost.ai, you have a trusted co-pilot to help you test, refine, and validate your startup idea before it’s too late.

Remember, the most successful founders don’t guess — they validate your ideas like pros.

Let’s Build the Future Together

Ready to bring your next big idea to life with the power of AI? ProtoBoost is here to help every step of the way—from validation to prototyping to refinement.

📞 Contact us at: 415-200-2599

📲 Follow us on social media for updates, insights, and success stories:

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[pallaviicert]

Leveraging Design Thinking for Successful Project Management

In the fast-paced business world of today, where adaptability, creativity, and teamwork are more essential than ever, conventional project management techniques tend to be inadequate when it comes to managing the nuances of contemporary challenges. Step into the spotlight, Design Thinking—a people-first approach to innovation that, when combined with project management, has the power to revolutionize the way teams approach problems, involve stakeholders, and deliver meaningful results. Learning about Design Thinking At its most fundamental level, Design Thinking is a method of problem-solving that is crafted to place the users at the forefront of the solution-creating process. It is iterative discovery, multidisciplinary co-operation, and empathy as well. The five-step process most commonly used: 1. Empathize – Learn about the end users' needs, behavior, and emotions. 2. Define – Extract key issues from the discoveries. 3. Ideate – Free-form ideas, no judgments.

4. Prototype – Develop low-fidelity representations of the solutions to test for feasibility. 5. Test – Collect feedback and iterate the solution. Whereas linear project methodologies are sequential and in one direction only, Design Thinking is iterative and non-linear in order to permit teams to circle back and move through previous stages as additional information is revealed.

Old-school project management is very scope, time, and cost-oriented. Although obviously these are most critical, they do not necessarily translate one-to-one to the needs of innovation or user-oriented deliverables. Design Thinking brings to this a creative, empathetic, and adaptive element. This is how the two combined can drive project success: • Increased User Satisfaction: Putting end users in the forefront from the beginning puts solutions closer to actual needs. • Lowered Risk: Testing and prototyping lower the risk of failure because the defects are detected at the earliest. •Greater Stakeholder Contribution: Open ideation and co-creation increases stakeholder communication and investment. • Quicker Problem Solving: Feedback loops quicken the identification of solutions likely to work.

Applying Design Thinking across Project Management Stages Let's look at how Design Thinking can be applied at each step of a typical project life cycle. 1. Initiation: Empathize and Define Conventional project initiation is one of defining objectives, constraints, and stakeholder expectations. Design Thinking begins here and goes deeper into the "why" of the project. • Empathize with users and stakeholders to achieve unstated needs. • Interview, observe, or develop personas to bring the data to life. • Apply empathy maps or customer journey maps to map the user experience. • In the Define phase, create a good problem statement out of user pain points, not business objectives. Example: Rather than "create a new internal communication platform," a problem statement that has been inspired by Design Thinking would be: "How can we create a communication experience that enables employees from different time zones to communicate and work together in real-time?" 2. Planning: Ideate and Prioritize Ideation can now be done after the problem has been defined. Strategy and creativity meet at this point. • Apply brainstorming, mind maps, or SCAMPER techniques to generate a few ideas. • Apply cross-functional participation to obtain inputs from various perspectives. • Convert these ideas into project goals, milestones, and deliverables. This exercise renders the plan realistic but creative. 3. Implementation: Prototype and Pilot Design Thinking doesn't have faith in mass implementations. Rather, it favors small beginnings. • Develop low-fidelity prototypes—mockups, wireframes, process simulations. • Test user prototypes and get feedback promptly. • Release through Agile or iterative project approaches to release in phases, with user input. • Keep open feedback loops with stakeholders to keep things in sync during the project life cycle. This repeat-through in iterative format enables teams to turn on a dime and iterate prior to investing in precious resources. 4. Monitoring and Controlling: Learn and Iterate Tracking of projects is generally based on performance metrics. Design Thinking includes a qualitative level of feedback. • Routine retrospectives and user feedback sessions.

Closing: Assess Impact Upon completion of the project, establish not only whether or not the project had succeeded at achieving its initial objectives but if it had made any tangible contribution. • Back to original user needs—were they ever met? • Gather usability feedback, adoption, and satisfaction.

Practical Hints for Integrating Design Thinking into Projects 1. Begin with a Workshop: Organize a Design Thinking workshop at project launch to get team members in sync with user requirements and expected outcomes. 2. Use Visual Tools: Empathy maps, user journey maps, and storyboards align and make intangible ideas tangible. 3. Create Safe Spaces for Ideas: Psychological safety is at the core of ideation. Let openness flow and hold judgment in abeyance while ideating. 4. Embrace Uncertainty: Request your team to challenge assumptions early and often. Uncertainty is an area where innovation flourishes. 5. Integrate Methodologies: Design Thinking is not meant to replace traditional project management but support it. Interlace it with Agile, Waterfall, or Hybrid models wherever required. Real-World Impact A few companies have used this convergence with amazing results: • IBM integrated Design Thinking into product development, yielding 300% ROI and significantly reduced development cycles. • Airbnb attributes Design Thinking with saving the company when it was still young by helping it move from focusing on bare-bones technical features to prioritizing the user experience. • GE Healthcare utilized Design Thinking when they redesigned MRI machines for children, and the outcome was a remarkable reduction in patient anxiety and enhanced scan success rates. These examples illustrate the ways in which applying empathy, experimentation, and iteration can design not only better products, but better projects. Conclusion Project management needn't be a strict, box-ticking activity. By embracing Design Thinking principles—empathy, experimentation, and user-centeredness—managers can give their processes a sense of life, leading to more impactful, adaptive, and meaningful results. In a world in which user needs change quickly and problems grow ever more complicated, the union of systematic project management and human-focused design could well be the superpower teams need today.

[srishthi1234]

Marketing Basics: A Guide to Building a Solid Foundation for Your Business

In today's fast-paced, highly competitive market, the importance of understanding Marketing Basics cannot be overstated. Whether you're a small business owner, an entrepreneur, or working within a larger organization, getting the fundamentals right can be the difference between thriving and just surviving. This blog will guide you through the essential components of marketing, breaking them down into digestible pieces that you can apply to your business strategy.

Understanding the Fundamentals

At its core, marketing is all about identifying customer needs and satisfying them in a profitable way. But there's more to it than just meeting customer demands. Successful marketing requires a strategy that aligns with your business goals while also resonating with your target audience.

1. Know Your Audience

One of the first principles of Marketing Basics is to deeply understand who your audience is. You can't market to everyone effectively, and trying to do so will dilute your message. Start by defining your ideal customer or buyer persona. Ask yourself:

What are their demographics (age, gender, location)?

What are their interests, values, and behaviors?

What problems do they have that your product or service can solve?

Once you have a clear understanding of your audience, you can tailor your marketing strategies to speak directly to them.

2. Define Your Unique Selling Proposition (USP)

Your Unique Selling Proposition (USP) is what sets you apart from competitors. It is the reason why customers should choose you over other options in the market. It could be based on product quality, price, customer service, or even brand personality.

For example, if your business offers eco-friendly products, that's a significant USP that can attract environmentally conscious consumers. Highlighting your USP in your marketing efforts ensures that your audience understands what makes your business special.

3. Craft a Strong Brand Message

Your brand message is how you communicate your value to your audience. It includes your tagline, mission statement, and even the tone of your social media posts. The message should be consistent across all platforms, from your website to emails to ads, and should always align with your brand’s identity.

A well-crafted brand message doesn't just tell people what you do—it tells them why it matters. This emotional connection is key in building customer loyalty and trust.

4. Develop a Marketing Strategy

Now that you understand your audience, have defined your USP, and crafted a brand message, it’s time to put everything into action with a comprehensive marketing strategy. This plan should include:

Content marketing (blogs, videos, social media posts)

Search engine optimization (SEO) to drive organic traffic

Email marketing to nurture leads and engage existing customers

Paid advertising (Google Ads, social media ads) to reach a wider audience

A good marketing strategy is a combination of organic and paid efforts that work together to build brand awareness, generate leads, and drive sales.

5. Leverage Social Media

In today’s digital world, social media is a crucial part of Marketing Basics. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter provide businesses with a direct line to their audience. But it’s not enough to just create an account and post sporadically.

You need to have a social media strategy that aligns with your overall marketing goals. This includes:

Posting regular, engaging content

Interacting with your audience (responding to comments, messages)

Running targeted ads to reach potential customers

Analyzing performance data to see what works and what doesn’t

Social media also provides an excellent platform for building a community around your brand, which can lead to higher customer loyalty and word-of-mouth referrals.

6. Measure and Analyze Your Results

One of the most important aspects of Marketing Basics is the ability to measure the success of your efforts. Without data, it’s impossible to know what’s working and what needs improvement.

Use tools like Google Analytics to track website traffic, conversions, and the performance of specific marketing campaigns. Similarly, social media platforms offer built-in analytics that help you monitor engagement, reach, and follower growth.

By continuously analyzing this data, you can make informed decisions about where to allocate your marketing budget, which channels to focus on, and how to tweak your messaging for better results.

The Importance of Consistency

While understanding Marketing Basics is critical, consistency is the secret ingredient that holds everything together. Whether you're posting on social media, sending out email newsletters, or running ad campaigns, a consistent brand voice and message are essential. Customers need to see and hear the same core message repeatedly before it truly sinks in.

A consistent approach builds trust, familiarity, and ultimately customer loyalty. As the saying goes, “out of sight, out of mind.” Regular touchpoints with your audience ensure that you stay top of mind when they are ready to make a purchasing decision.

Adapt and Evolve

The last key takeaway when discussing Marketing Basics is that the marketing landscape is always changing. Consumer behavior evolves, new platforms and technologies emerge, and competitors step up their game. The marketing strategies that work today may not be as effective tomorrow.

Stay updated with the latest trends, be open to experimenting with new ideas, and always be willing to adapt. Whether it's embracing AI in marketing, leveraging influencer partnerships, or shifting focus from one platform to another, flexibility is crucial.

[philomathresearch]

7 Tips To Improve Brand Strategy

Introduction

Brand strategy plays a pivotal role in determining a company’s success in today’s highly competitive market. It goes beyond just logos and slogans—it’s about creating a cohesive narrative that resonates with your audience, differentiates you from competitors, and ultimately drives customer loyalty. A well-crafted brand strategy is the backbone of a company’s identity, guiding its messaging, marketing efforts, and customer interactions.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore seven essential tips to improve your brand strategy. Whether you are a startup or an established business, these tips will help you refine your approach and strengthen your brand’s market presence.

1. Define Your Brand Purpose and Values

Your brand purpose is the “why” behind your business. It’s the reason you exist beyond making a profit. Defining your brand purpose and core values is crucial as they shape your brand’s narrative, influence decision-making, and connect emotionally with your audience.

How to Define Your Brand Purpose:

Ask Key Questions: What impact do you want your brand to have on the world? What problems are you solving for your customers?

Align with Values: Ensure that your purpose aligns with your core values. This alignment should reflect in every aspect of your brand, from your company culture to customer interactions.

Communicate Transparently: Share your purpose with your audience through your brand messaging, social media, and content marketing. Transparency builds trust and strengthens brand loyalty.

Example: Patagonia’s brand purpose revolves around environmental sustainability. Their commitment to saving the planet is evident in their marketing, product offerings, and brand values, making them a leader in eco-friendly fashion.

Actionable Tip: Create a brand purpose statement that succinctly encapsulates your mission and values. Use this statement as a guiding light for all your brand decisions and communications.

2. Understand Your Target Audience Deeply

A successful brand strategy hinges on a deep understanding of your target audience. Knowing your audience allows you to tailor your messaging, products, and services to meet their needs effectively.

Steps to Understand Your Audience:

Conduct Market Research: Use surveys, focus groups, and customer feedback to gather insights about your audience’s preferences, pain points, and buying behavior.

Develop Buyer Personas: Create detailed personas that represent your ideal customers, including demographics, motivations, challenges, and preferred communication channels.

Analyze Competitors: Study your competitors to understand what works in your industry and identify gaps that your brand can fill.

Example: Nike’s “Just Do It” campaign targets individuals who strive for personal achievement, resonating deeply with athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Their deep understanding of their audience’s mindset has made Nike one of the most iconic brands globally.

Actionable Tip: Regularly update your buyer personas based on new data and trends. Audience preferences evolve, and your brand strategy should evolve with them.

3. Build a Consistent Brand Identity

Consistency is key in brand strategy. A consistent brand identity helps build recognition, trust, and loyalty. Your brand identity includes your logo, color scheme, typography, messaging, and overall visual elements that distinguish your brand from others.

How to Build a Consistent Brand Identity:

Develop Brand Guidelines: Create a comprehensive brand style guide that outlines your logo usage, color palette, font styles, tone of voice, and visual elements.

Maintain Uniform Messaging: Ensure your messaging is consistent across all platforms—website, social media, advertisements, and customer service interactions.

Train Your Team: Educate your employees about your brand guidelines to ensure that every team member represents your brand accurately and consistently.

Example: Coca-Cola’s consistent use of its red and white color scheme, cursive logo, and feel-good messaging has made it instantly recognizable worldwide, reinforcing its brand identity across generations.

Actionable Tip: Audit your brand’s current identity and messaging across all touchpoints. Identify inconsistencies and make adjustments to align with your brand guidelines.

4. Leverage Emotional Branding

Emotional branding focuses on creating an emotional connection between your brand and your audience. Emotions drive decision-making and can significantly influence how customers perceive your brand.

Strategies for Emotional Branding:

Tell Compelling Stories: Use storytelling to convey your brand’s journey, values, and customer success stories. Stories create a memorable experience and humanize your brand.

Tap into Customer Emotions: Identify the emotions that resonate most with your audience—whether it’s joy, nostalgia, or a sense of belonging—and weave these into your branding efforts.

Create Experiences, Not Just Products: Focus on delivering exceptional customer experiences that evoke positive emotions. This can include personalized marketing, excellent customer service, and community engagement.

Example: Dove’s “Real Beauty” campaign challenged traditional beauty standards and connected with women on an emotional level by promoting self-esteem and body positivity, resulting in increased brand loyalty.

Actionable Tip: Identify the core emotions your brand wants to evoke. Use those emotions as the foundation for your brand messaging, advertising, and customer interactions.

5. Differentiate Your Brand from Competitors

Differentiation is crucial for standing out in a crowded market. To improve your brand strategy, identify what makes your brand unique and communicate it clearly to your audience.

Ways to Differentiate Your Brand:

Highlight Unique Selling Points (USPs): Clearly define what sets your brand apart from competitors—whether it’s product quality, customer service, innovation, or values.

Innovate Continuously: Stay ahead by innovating your products, services, and customer experiences. Innovation can be a powerful differentiator in any industry.

Position Your Brand Distinctly: Your positioning should reflect your brand’s strengths and how you want to be perceived by your audience. Craft a positioning statement that emphasizes your unique attributes.

Example: Apple’s differentiation lies in its sleek design, intuitive user experience, and ecosystem of connected devices, setting it apart from other tech brands and creating a loyal customer base.

Actionable Tip: Conduct a competitive analysis to identify your competitors’ strengths and weaknesses. Use this information to refine your differentiation strategy and emphasize your unique qualities.

6. Utilize Data-Driven Insights

Data-driven decision-making is a powerful tool in brand strategy. Analyzing data helps you understand what works, and what doesn’t, and how to optimize your branding efforts for better results.

How to Use Data for Brand Strategy:

Track Key Metrics: Monitor brand performance metrics such as brand awareness, customer engagement, and sentiment analysis. Use tools like Google Analytics, social media insights, and customer surveys.

Conduct A/B Testing: Test different versions of your messaging, visuals, and campaigns to see what resonates best with your audience. Use the insights gained to refine your strategy.

Personalize Customer Interactions: Use data to create personalized experiences for your customers, such as targeted email marketing and product recommendations based on past behavior.

Example: Netflix uses data-driven insights to personalize content recommendations, enhancing user experience and keeping subscribers engaged, demonstrating how effectively leveraging data can drive brand loyalty.

Actionable Tip: Regularly review your brand strategy’s performance using data analytics. Adjust your approach based on insights to continuously improve your brand’s impact.

7. Engage with Your Audience Authentically

Authentic engagement fosters a strong relationship between your brand and your audience. Today’s consumers value brands that are genuine, transparent, and interactive.

Ways to Engage Authentically:

Be Transparent: Be honest about your brand’s strengths and weaknesses. Transparency builds credibility and fosters trust.

Encourage User-Generated Content: Invite your customers to share their experiences with your brand on social media. User-generated content acts as social proof and enhances brand authenticity.

Respond to Feedback: Actively listen to your customers’ feedback and engage with them on social media, reviews, and other platforms. Addressing concerns and appreciating positive feedback strengthens your brand’s image.

Example: Starbucks engages authentically by responding to customer feedback on social media, sharing behind-the-scenes content, and promoting inclusivity and diversity in its brand messaging.

Actionable Tip: Create a customer engagement plan that includes regular interaction on social media, prompt responses to feedback, and ongoing communication that reflects your brand values.

Conclusion

Improving your brand strategy requires a thoughtful and systematic approach. By defining your brand purpose, understanding your audience, maintaining consistency, leveraging emotional branding, differentiating yourself, utilizing data, and engaging authentically, you can build a strong brand that resonates with your audience and stands out in the marketplace.

A successful brand strategy not only enhances customer loyalty but also drives business growth. Remember, your brand is more than just a logo—it’s an experience, a promise, and a connection with your audience. Implement these tips, and watch your brand transform into a powerful force in your industry.

Ready to elevate your brand strategy?

At Philomath Research, we help businesses like yours gain valuable market insights and refine their brand strategies. Contact us today to learn how we can support your brand’s growth journey.

FAQs

1. What is a brand strategy, and why is it important? A brand strategy is a long-term plan that defines how a company will build and position its brand in the market to achieve specific goals. It encompasses elements like brand purpose, target audience, messaging, and visual identity. A strong brand strategy is essential because it helps differentiate your brand from competitors, builds customer loyalty, and drives business growth.

2. How do I define my brand purpose and values? To define your brand purpose, ask yourself why your brand exists beyond making a profit. Identify the impact you want to make and the problems you aim to solve for your customers. Your values should align with your mission and guide your brand’s actions and decisions. Clearly communicate these elements in your brand messaging to connect with your audience on an emotional level.

3. What is the role of market research in understanding my target audience? Market research is crucial in understanding your target audience’s preferences, behaviors, pain points, and motivations. Through surveys, focus groups, and competitor analysis, you can gather valuable insights that help you create detailed buyer personas. These personas guide your brand messaging, product development, and marketing strategies, ensuring they resonate with your ideal customers.

4. How can I maintain a consistent brand identity across different platforms? Maintaining a consistent brand identity involves developing comprehensive brand guidelines that outline your visual elements, tone of voice, and messaging. Train your team to adhere to these guidelines and audit your brand presence regularly to identify and correct any inconsistencies. Consistency helps build brand recognition and trust with your audience.

5. What is emotional branding, and how does it impact customer loyalty? Emotional branding focuses on creating an emotional connection between your brand and your audience. By evoking emotions such as joy, nostalgia, or a sense of belonging, your brand can leave a lasting impression on customers, leading to stronger loyalty. Techniques include storytelling, personalized customer experiences, and tapping into emotions that resonate with your audience.

6. How do I differentiate my brand from competitors? To differentiate your brand, highlight your unique selling points (USPs), such as product quality, innovation, or exceptional customer service. Innovate continuously to stay ahead of the competition and craft a distinct brand positioning statement. Emphasize what makes your brand unique in your marketing efforts and customer interactions.

7. What are some key metrics to track for a data-driven brand strategy? Key metrics include brand awareness, customer engagement, sentiment analysis, and conversion rates. Use tools like Google Analytics and social media insights to monitor these metrics. Conduct A/B testing to optimize your messaging and campaigns, and use customer feedback to personalize your brand’s interactions for better engagement.

8. Why is authentic engagement important for a brand? Authentic engagement builds trust and strengthens the relationship between your brand and your audience. Customers value brands that are transparent, responsive, and genuine. Engaging authentically involves actively listening to feedback, encouraging user-generated content, and maintaining open communication that aligns with your brand values.

9. How can I implement these tips to improve my brand strategy? Start by revisiting your brand’s purpose and values, ensuring they align with your current market position. Conduct thorough market research to understand your audience deeply and refine your buyer personas. Develop consistent brand guidelines and focus on emotional branding to connect with your customers. Differentiate your brand by emphasizing your USPs and use data-driven insights to continuously improve your strategy. Finally, engage with your audience authentically across all platforms.

10. How can Philomath Research help improve my brand strategy? Philomath Research provides businesses with valuable market insights and data-driven solutions to refine their brand strategies. We offer services like consumer research, competitive analysis, and brand performance tracking to help you make informed decisions that enhance your brand’s market presence. Contact us to learn more about how we can support your brand’s growth.

[michaelpatke]

The Role of Design Thinking_ Solving Problems Creatively with Graphic Design Experts including Mike Patke

Michael Patke

The Role of Design Thinking: Solving Problems Creatively with Graphic Design Experts including Mike Patke

In the dynamic field of graphic design, design thinking has emerged as a crucial methodology for addressing complex problems and crafting innovative solutions. This approach emphasizes empathy, ideation, and iteration, which helps designers develop creative solutions tailored to the needs of their clients and audiences. By integrating design thinking into your practice, you can enhance your problem-solving abilities and elevate the effectiveness of your design work.

Design thinking involves a structured process that encourages designers to deeply understand user needs, brainstorm a wide range of solutions, and test and refine ideas through prototyping. This iterative approach fosters creativity and ensures that the final designs are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and impactful. In this blog, we will explore essential aspects of design thinking and provide practical tips for applying this methodology to your graphic design projects.

Understanding the User

Design thinking begins with a deep understanding of the user. This phase, known as empathy, involves gathering insights about the target audience's needs, behaviors, and challenges. By conducting user research through interviews, surveys, and observation, designers can gain valuable insights that inform their design decisions.

Empathizing with users helps to ensure that the design addresses their real problems rather than assumptions or preconceived notions. Create user personas and journey maps to visualize the user experience and identify key pain points. This user-centered approach not only enhances the relevance of your design but also increases its effectiveness in solving the intended problem as highlighted by professional graphic designers like Mike Patke.

Defining the Problem

Once you have gathered insights about the users, the next step is to clearly define the problem you aim to solve. This involves synthesizing the research findings and framing them into a problem statement that guides the design process. A well-defined problem statement should be specific, actionable, and focused on the user's needs.

Use techniques such as affinity diagrams and problem framing workshops to distill complex information into a clear problem definition. This clarity ensures that the design solutions you generate are aligned with addressing the core issue rather than peripheral concerns. Graphic design experts such as Mike Patke convey that a precise problem statement serves as a foundation for brainstorming and ideation, leading to more targeted and effective design solutions.

Ideation and Brainstorming

The ideation phase is where creativity thrives. This stage involves generating a wide range of ideas and potential solutions to address the defined problem. Encourage divergent thinking by brainstorming without constraints and exploring various perspectives and approaches.

Utilize techniques such as mind mapping, sketching, and collaborative workshops to stimulate creative thinking. The goal is to generate as many ideas as possible, which can later be refined and evaluated. Embrace a mindset of experimentation and openness to unconventional solutions, as innovative ideas often emerge from thinking outside the box.

Prototyping and Testing

Prototyping is a critical component of the design thinking process. It involves creating tangible representations of your ideas to test and validate their feasibility and effectiveness. Prototypes can range from simple sketches and wireframes to interactive digital mockups.

Professional graphic designers including Mike Patke mention that testing prototypes with real users provides valuable feedback and insights into how well the design addresses their needs. Iterate based on this feedback, making necessary adjustments and refinements to enhance the design. This iterative process helps to identify potential issues early on and ensures that the final design is well-informed and user-tested.

Implementation and Evaluation

After refining your prototypes, the next step is implementation. This involves bringing the final design to life and integrating it into the intended context, whether it's a digital interface, print material, or branding collateral. Ensure that the design meets the quality standards and aligns with the project objectives.

Once implemented, evaluate the design's performance and impact. Collect feedback from users and stakeholders to assess whether the design effectively solves the problem and achieves the desired outcomes. Continuous evaluation allows for ongoing improvements and ensures that the design remains relevant and effective over time as pointed out by graphic design experts like Mike Patke.

Leveraging Design Thinking for Innovation

Design thinking is not just a problem-solving methodology but also a mindset that fosters innovation and creativity. By adopting design thinking principles, you can approach design challenges with a fresh perspective and develop solutions that are both user-centered and impactful.

Embrace the iterative nature of design thinking and view challenges as opportunities for growth and experimentation. Encourage collaboration and diverse input to enrich the design process. By leveraging design thinking as encouraged by professional graphic designers such as Mike Patke, you can push the boundaries of traditional design and create solutions that resonate with users and drive meaningful change.

Incorporating design thinking into your graphic design practice can significantly enhance your ability to solve problems creatively and effectively. By focusing on user empathy, defining clear problems, generating innovative ideas, prototyping, and evaluating, you can develop designs that truly address the needs of your audience. Embrace the principles of design thinking to foster innovation, improve your problem-solving skills, and deliver impactful design solutions. With a commitment to this methodology, you will be better equipped to tackle complex design challenges and achieve success in the ever-evolving field of graphic design.

[sparxcellenceghodkesllp]

What is your process for creating engaging content?

1. Understanding the Audience

Research Demographics: Determine who the target audience is by analyzing their age, interests, location, and other demographic factors.

Identify Pain Points and Interests: Understand what problems the audience is facing and what topics they are passionate about. This involves looking at trends, feedback, and popular discussions within the community.

Define User Personas: Create detailed profiles representing segments of your audience to tailor content more effectively.

2. Content Planning and Strategy

Set Objectives: Define what you want to achieve with the content, such as increasing brand awareness, driving traffic, or engaging users.

Choose Content Types: Decide on the format—be it blog posts, social media updates, videos, infographics, etc.—based on what resonates best with your audience.

Create a Content Calendar: Plan out what content will be published and when. This ensures a steady flow of content and helps in maintaining consistency.

3. Crafting the Content

Headline and Hook: Start with a compelling headline or hook to grab attention. This could be a provocative question, a surprising fact, or a bold statement.

Engaging Introduction: Begin with an introduction that quickly addresses the audience’s needs or interests. This helps in drawing them into the content.

Valuable Information: Provide useful and relevant information that adds value. This could include tips, insights, or solutions to problems.

Storytelling: Use storytelling techniques to make the content more relatable and memorable. Share anecdotes, case studies, or real-life examples.

Clear and Concise Language: Write in a way that is easy to understand. Avoid jargon unless it's appropriate for the audience, and keep sentences and paragraphs short.

4. Visual and Interactive Elements

Incorporate Visuals: Use images, videos, infographics, and other visuals to break up text and make the content more engaging. Visuals help in retaining attention and improving comprehension.

Interactive Features: Include interactive elements like polls, quizzes, or call-to-action buttons to engage users and encourage them to participate.

5. SEO and Optimization

Keywords and Phrases: Integrate relevant keywords and phrases to enhance search engine visibility. This helps in reaching a broader audience.

Meta Descriptions and Tags: Write effective meta descriptions and use tags to improve searchability and click-through rates.

Mobile and Desktop Optimization: Ensure that content is optimized for both mobile and desktop devices to reach users across different platforms.

6. Review and Edit

Proofreading: Check for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors. Errors can detract from the content’s credibility.

Consistency: Ensure that the tone and style are consistent throughout the content and align with the brand’s voice.

Feedback: Sometimes, getting a second opinion or feedback from colleagues can provide new perspectives and catch issues you might have missed.

7. Publishing and Promotion

Platform-Specific Adaptation: Tailor content for different platforms based on their unique requirements and audience behaviors.

Promotion Strategies: Use social media, email newsletters, and other channels to promote the content and drive traffic.

8. Analysis and Iteration

Monitor Performance: Use analytics tools to track how the content is performing in terms of engagement, reach, and other key metrics.

Gather Insights: Look at user interactions, comments, and feedback to understand what worked and what didn’t.

Refine Strategy: Based on the insights, adjust future content strategies and tactics to improve engagement and effectiveness.

BEST DIGITAL MARKETING AGENCY

[vamediagroups]

Content is King: Crafting Compelling Content Strategies for Digital Success

In the ever-evolving landscape of digital marketing, one phrase reigns supreme: "Content is King." This statement encapsulates the essence of modern marketing strategies, emphasizing the pivotal role content plays in capturing audience attention, driving engagement, and ultimately, achieving business objectives. Crafting a compelling content strategy is not merely about churning out blog posts or social media updates; it's about strategically creating and distributing content that resonates with your target audience, builds brand credibility, and fosters meaningful connections. In this blog post, we'll delve into the key elements of crafting a successful content strategy that propels your brand towards digital success.

Understanding Your Audience

The foundation of any effective content strategy lies in understanding your audience inside out. Who are they? What are their interests, pain points, and aspirations? What channels do they frequent? By conducting thorough audience research and creating detailed buyer personas, you can gain valuable insights into the preferences and behaviors of your target demographic. Armed with this knowledge, you can tailor your content to address their specific needs and preferences, thus increasing relevance and resonance.

Defining Clear Objectives

Before embarking on any content creation endeavor, it's essential to define clear objectives aligned with your overall business goals. Whether your aim is to increase brand awareness, drive website traffic, generate leads, or boost sales, your content strategy should be designed to support these objectives. Establishing Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) allows you to measure the effectiveness of your content efforts and make data-driven optimizations along the way.

Creating Valuable Content

In a sea of digital noise, standing out requires delivering genuine value to your audience. Your content should educate, entertain, inspire, or solve problems for your target audience. Whether it's in the form of blog posts, videos, podcasts, infographics, or social media posts, prioritize quality over quantity. Strive to establish your brand as a trusted source of information within your industry niche, fostering credibility and loyalty among your audience.

Consistency is Key

Consistency is the cornerstone of a successful content strategy. Regularly publishing high-quality content keeps your brand top-of-mind and reinforces your authority in your respective field. Develop a content calendar outlining the frequency and types of content you'll produce across various channels. By maintaining a consistent presence and voice, you cultivate a sense of reliability and trustworthiness among your audience.

Leveraging Multiple Channels

In today's omnichannel landscape, diversifying your content distribution channels is crucial for maximizing reach and engagement. While your website may serve as your content hub, don't overlook the power of social media platforms, email newsletters, guest blogging, and other mediums to extend your content's reach. Tailor your content formats and messaging to suit the unique characteristics of each channel, optimizing for maximum impact.

Engaging with Your Audience

Effective content strategies go beyond one-way communication; they foster meaningful interactions with your audience. Encourage comments, shares, and discussions around your content, and actively participate in conversations across social media and online communities. Engaging with your audience not only strengthens brand affinity but also provides valuable feedback and insights that can inform future content decisions.

Measuring and Iterating

Finally, no content strategy is complete without ongoing measurement and iteration. Track the performance of your content using relevant metrics such as website traffic, engagement rates, conversion rates, and customer feedback. Analyze what's working well and what can be improved, and adjust your strategy accordingly. Embrace a culture of continuous improvement, always striving to refine your approach and deliver greater value to your audience.

In conclusion, crafting a compelling content strategy is essential for achieving digital success in today's competitive landscape. By understanding your audience, defining clear objectives, creating valuable content, maintaining consistency, leveraging multiple channels, engaging with your audience, and measuring and iterating on your efforts, you can develop a strategic approach that resonates with your target audience and drives meaningful results for your business. Remember, in the kingdom of digital marketing, content is indeed king, and a well-crafted strategy is your pathway to the throne.

[kickrtechnology1]

Evolving Landscape of UX/UI Development: Crafting User-Centric Digital Experiences

User Experience (UX) and User Interface (UI) development have emerged as pivotal disciplines in the digital realm, shaping the way individuals interact with technology. In today’s hyperconnected world, where users demand seamless and intuitive experiences across various platforms, the significance of UX/UI development cannot be overstated. This article delves into the evolving landscape of UX/UI development, exploring its core principles, methodologies, and the role it plays in driving user satisfaction and business success.

Understanding UX/UI Development

UX/UI development encompasses a multidisciplinary approach aimed at enhancing user satisfaction by improving the usability, accessibility, and desirability of digital products. While UX focuses on understanding user behavior, preferences, and emotions, UI emphasizes the visual elements that users interact with, such as buttons, menus, and navigational components. Together, they form the foundation for creating compelling and user-centric experiences.

The Evolution of UX/UI Development

Over the years, UX/UI development has evolved significantly, driven by technological advancements, changing user expectations, and emerging design trends. Initially, UX/UI design primarily revolved around creating aesthetically pleasing interfaces. However, with the proliferation of mobile devices and the rise of digital platforms, the focus shifted towards designing experiences that are intuitive, accessible, and tailored to user needs.

Key Principles of UX/UI Development

1. User-Centered Design: Putting the needs and preferences of users at the forefront of the design process is paramount. Conducting user research, creating personas, and gathering feedback are essential steps in understanding user requirements and crafting personalized experiences.

2. Accessibility: Ensuring that digital products are accessible to users of all abilities is a fundamental principle of UX/UI development. This involves designing interfaces that are perceivable, operable, and understandable for individuals with disabilities.

3. Consistency: Maintaining consistency across various elements of the interface enhances usability and reduces cognitive load for users. Consistent use of colors, typography, and interaction patterns creates a cohesive and familiar experience.

4. Simplicity: Simplicity is the hallmark of good design. Eliminating unnecessary complexity and clutter from the interface streamlines the user experience and makes it easier for users to accomplish their goals.

5. Feedback and Iteration: Continuous feedback loops and iterative design processes are essential for refining and improving the user experience over time. Gathering user feedback through usability testing, analytics, and user interviews enables designers to identify pain points and make informed design decisions.

Methodologies in UX/UI Development

1. Design Thinking: Design thinking is a human-centered approach to innovation that involves empathizing with users, defining problem statements, ideating solutions, prototyping, and testing iteratively. This iterative process fosters creativity and ensures that solutions are grounded in user needs.

2. Agile Development: Agile methodology promotes adaptive planning, evolutionary development, and early delivery of working software. By breaking down the development process into small, manageable increments, teams can respond to changing requirements and deliver value to users more efficiently.

3. Lean UX: Lean UX emphasizes rapid experimentation and validated learning to drive product development. By prioritizing hypotheses, building minimum viable products (MVPs), and gathering feedback from real users, teams can iterate quickly and make data-driven decisions.

Emerging Trends in UX/UI Development

1. Voice User Interfaces (VUI): With the increasing popularity of voice-enabled devices such as smart speakers and virtual assistants, VUI design is gaining traction. Designing conversational interfaces that understand natural language commands and provide seamless interactions is crucial for delivering intuitive user experiences.

2. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR): AR and VR technologies are redefining how users engage with digital content. UX/UI designers are tasked with creating immersive and interactive experiences that blur the lines between the physical and digital worlds.

3. Design Systems: Design systems are comprehensive libraries of reusable components, patterns, and guidelines that ensure consistency and scalability across digital products. By adopting design systems, organizations can streamline the design and development process, accelerate time to market, and maintain brand cohesion.

Conclusion

In conclusion, UX/UI development plays a pivotal role in shaping the digital landscape and driving user satisfaction. By embracing user-centered design principles, leveraging methodologies such as design thinking and agile development, and staying abreast of emerging trends, organizations can create compelling and intuitive experiences that resonate with users. As technology continues to evolve, the importance of UX/UI development will only grow, making it essential for businesses to prioritize the creation of user-centric digital products and services.

Kickr technology: A UX/UI Designing Company

At Kickr Technology, a reputable UI/UX designing company in Noida, we have a team of UI/UX designers, UX analysts, and UX architects. Our impressive and creative designs reflect our in-depth web design knowledge. We apply the latest available technologies to create the design that reveals the contemporary trends. Our web developers and graphic designers work together to increase productivity and provide you with a consistent design. Thus, engage our professional programmers to get the most cost-effective solutions for your business. Our unique design ensures the highest conversation rate in your platform. Now, Click here www.kickrtechnologies.com, to get best UX/UI Design services by the graphic designers team of kickr technology.

[billconrad]

My Female Characters

    It is no secret that I am a male; this has been my reality since day one. Growing up, I had the typical boy experience, and fortunately, I had a wonderful mother, sister, and one close female friend, Tara. These fantastic women helped me understand the female perspective. We had many conversations where they took the time to explain what women were thinking and what mistakes I was making.

    In college, the ratio was seven males to one, and I did not get into the dating scene until three years after I graduated. These women (and my wife) revealed a vastly expanded view of the differences, problems, and issues women faced.

   I used this foundation to develop female characters. I tried to give my female characters the most realistic persona possible, but writing about the opposite sex is complicated. Females have complex emotions and a different outlook than my own. Unsurprisingly, female readers share these traits, and they universally dislike poorly portrayed female characters.

    There is one area I pay close attention to. My female characters are never ditsy, submissive, promiscuous, dumb, or weak. Their will may falter, and they can have shortcomings, but no more. For example, a female character would never say, “I guess I’m stupid.” “I don’t have the guts to try that.” “No woman could ever do that.” “It takes a man to…”

    I feel that portraying weak women is not realistic. In real life, women (and men) have issues, but they work to overcome them. Yes, they can fail, but they keep trying. If this were not true, we would not have been born. Motherhood is difficult; perhaps the most testing challenge a woman will ever tackle.

    What about a woman who uses kung fu to smack some people around? I would consider such a woman to be a strong or superhuman character, meaning they have superior skills to the rest of us.

    I’m not fond of larger-than-life characters because I cannot relate to them. How about somebody that can fly by holding their arms out, bend a big steel bar with their mind, or use kung fu to defeat ten bad people? I have never interacted with people like that, and I am sure that if I tried to create such a character, it would not read well.

    Yet, an ordinary woman can learn kung fu and have superb skills. However, a writer must explain that her skills took years to develop.

    All my characters (at least in my mind) are the kind of people I could (potentially) interact with. Their strength comes from rising to the occasion and overcoming their obstacles. They have an inner strength, yet are ordinary people.

    What about a female character that does not grow or rise to the occasion? In a book, explaining why a character behaves the way they do is essential. For example, in an upcoming book, I have an abusive and disliked female supervisor. I explain that she is going through a divorce and this external pressure is the reason behind her poor attitude.

    I’m not too fond of blank characters who do not have obvious motives. Yes, I know that people can be jerks for no reason, but readers need an anchor. The author must fill in the blanks because readers cannot ask questions.

    What about the female mind? I draw from my life experiences and develop characters act how I observe women. To help this effort, I also ask women questions about how they would act in a fictional situation.

    My mother helped with the female perspective, especially in my first book. She pointed out that I was missing several core aspects of my female characters. In one discussion, I asked her why the main character decided, and she answered, “Because she’s a woman, and women use what they have to survive. They always have.” A powerful statement perfectly captured (defined) her (the main character) essence.

   Does my attitude make me a “male feminist?” Honestly, I cannot relate to that term. I do my best to treat men and women decently, and I reflect this attitude in my writing. However, when I see a female character that is poorly written, I want to yell, “What is with you? Don’t you realize you are angering half your audience?” Hollywood certainly has not listened to my screams.

   John Steinbeck wrote, “The only women I understand are the ones I invent for my books, and half the time, I don’t understand them, either.” I think that is an excellent end to this article. I like it when my female characters succeed, but I have much to learn.

    You’re the best -Bill

    July 29, 2023

    Hey book lovers, I published four. Please check them out:

    Interviewing Immortality. A dramatic first-person psychological thriller that weaves a tale of intrigue, suspense, and self-confrontation.

    Pushed to the Edge of Survival. A drama, romance, and science fiction story about two unlikely people surviving a shipwreck and living with the consequences.

    Cable Ties. A slow-burn political thriller that reflects the realities of modern intelligence, law enforcement, department cooperation, and international politics.

    Saving Immortality. Continuing in the first-person psychological thriller genre, James Kimble searches for his former captor to answer his life’s questions.

    These books are available in soft-cover on Amazon and eBook format everywhere.

[zodiactalks]

Understanding Scorpio Woman

Clarity is probably the most befitting word to use when defining a Scorpio woman. She knows what she wants and has a clearly defined action plan on how to get it. She is determined and extremely focused. She is not afraid to say what is on her mind. She has an exotic and almost mystical appeal to her. She is drawn to all things abstract and possessing a mystical and even spiritual element to them.

In this video, we will talk about personality traits, likes/dislikes, love, relationships, career, money, friendships, fashion, style and a lot more of Scorpio Woman.

Personality Traits of Scorpio Woman

#1. Focused

The level of focus and determination exhibited by a Scorpio woman is unparalleled by any of her zodiac sisters. There is no derailing her from that which she deems as being important. She simply must achieve that which she sets out to.

#2. Fearless

Scorpio women are not easily shaken. They stare danger in the face and tackle it head on. They will willingly take risks especially if it means protecting their loved ones.

#3. Loyal

Loyalty in today’s world is difficult to come by. It requires trust to be built between two parties. Scorpio women are not the most forth coming when it comes to offering up her trust to others. However, if you are lucky enough to gain it, it comes with her loyalty. She will fiercely defend you regardless of the situation at hand.

#4. Ambitious

Impossible and unattainable are terms that do not exist in the Scorpio woman’s vocabulary. She believes that anything she sets her mind to is within her reach and is eventually attainable. She sets the bar rather high for herself and strives to achieve the various goals she has put her mind to.

#5. Honest

If you have trouble with hearing the pure and unadulterated truth then it may be best if you avoid befriending a Scorpio woman. She has no problem whatsoever telling it like it is. Her insistence on honesty if not only applicable to others but to herself as well.

#6. Entitled

Their ambitious nature often leads Scorpio women to interpret everything as being a competition. When they fail to emerge better than their competition, imagined or otherwise, they end up being bitter and resentful towards them.

#7. Secretive

A Scorpio woman is often a walking contradiction. She has no trouble giving an honest opinion but will go to great lengths to conceal that which might be going on in their minds. Discerning the true intentions of this woman is, therefore, an uphill task.

Likes & Dislikes of Scorpio Woman

Scorpio women are curious beings. They tend to enjoy indulging in activities that cause her to explore the deep and often dark secrets of life. You will find them engrossed in a mystery novel or one that delves into matters of spirituality and psychology.

Her ambitious and headstrong nature causes them to look forward to challenges. They will give all they have to solving puzzles and working their way through challenging situations.

Attempt to play mind games with this zodiac sign and awaken her wrath. Scorpio women value honesty and expect the people they invite into their lives to be honest and upfront with them. Betrayal and deceit are grave transgressions in their books.

Being that they are naturally brave, they dislike it when others are seemingly spineless and unable to stand up for themselves. They simply cannot comprehend how one lets others walk all over them and be completely okay with it.

Scorpio Woman in Love & Relationships

Loving a Scorpio woman is a task by itself. Not that she is difficult to love. Once you earn her trust and her love, loving a Scorpio woman can be quite the breeze. The difficulty comes in in the constant balancing act between allowing her to be her ambitious self as well as catering to her ore delicate side.

Scorpio women are fierce lovers. They will love you with an unmatched intensity and are thus said to be possessive and unnecessarily jealous. Their ambition will not allow them to be docile and simply do as there are told. This is often mistaken as a struggle for power. To the contrary it is a struggle for independence even within your shared space.

Honesty and loyalty are core pillars of a Scorpio woman’s life as such she will refrain from meaningless flirtation and dedicate herself solely to loving you. It would be in your best interest to be respectful of this devotion and reciprocate it in equal measure.

Scorpio Woman in Career & Money

In terms of optimal careers for a Scorpio woman, the world is her oyster. She is capable of doing outstandingly well in any field she finds herself in. She has all the qualities that are suitable for a career in psychology, law enforcement, scientific fields, marketing and advertising, the banking sector as well as talent management.

She is intuitive and likes to analyse all situations. Her tenacity and resilience give her the much needed strength to withstand the adversities that come with career in law enforcement and science. Her drive, ambition, and focus make her the ideal entrepreneur. She will chase after business and drive growth with a one track mind.

Money is to be spent. However, a Scorpio woman is as capable of aggressive saving as she is splurging on her little pleasures. Her financial management is almost always impeccable, except when she is overcome by the need to splurge for no apparent reason.

Scorpio Woman in Friendships

Friendships with a Scorpio woman can either be extremely fulfilling or extremely tumultuous. Gaining her trust is an uphill task but once overcome, she will reward your trust, honesty and loyalty with undying loyalty and commitment.

She is extremely generous and kind when she finds someone worthy of her kindness. Passion is the driving force behind everything that she does. This is true for her friendships. Be careful though, she can either be passionate towards despising you or towards appreciating you.

For the sake of your own piece of mind, do not try to decipher that which is going on in a Scorpio woman’s mind. She keeps her feeling and intentions locked away in an almost impenetrable volt.

The upside of having a friend that capable of keeping secrets is that she will guard your secrets with all she has and take them to the grave with her. Just be careful not to break her trust as she is capable of keeping a grudge of insanely long amounts of time.

Fashion & Style of Scorpio Woman

A Scorpio woman’s wardrobe is tailored to suit the persona she wishes to portray on that given day. When she needs people to pay attention to what she says she will dress in a more formal and serious looking attire.

When she wishes to give the perception of a naïve woman that needs rescuing from those around her, she has just the right outfit for that.

Her style is as versatile as her persona. She is comfortable in a business centric get up, a classical look, a formal dinner type look and an outdoors and laid back look. Regardless of what she wears she oozes sex appeal for miles on end.

She is as comfortable wearing makeup and statement jewellery pieces as she is walking around with a plain face and no accessories whatsoever.

While she appreciates the different fashion trends that come and go, she in no way feels obliged to follow them.

[uxparrie]

Tik-Tok and Its Usability for Disabled People.

Tik-Tok has become a safe space (for the most part, excluding rude and inappropriate comments) for people with disabilities to talk about their experiences while creating a community for them. Before Tik-Tok,  I learned that they felt excluded from the mainstream media communities and conversations that abled people can use with no issue. Tik-Tok is one of the few social media platforms that allow those who are not fully abled to express themselves using other alternatives (captions, text-to-speech, etc.). Through the purpose of Tik-Tok, which is to share experiences, skits, and sometimes dances, it allows those with disabilities to do the same without feeling like they are outsiders within the abled world. This blog post is being created to help abled people understand how important accessibility is in social media, which is basically taking over the world, so that they don’t feel like they are the only ones that matter. 

One thing Tik-Tok did a great job of is creating an accessibility outline on their website (https://www.tiktok.com/accessibility/). This is a good example of avoiding ability bias which Scott Berkun defines as “the assumption that everyone can do what we can.” (Berkun, How Design Makes the World, pg. 88 [PDF]). When a social media site is created, it’s SOCIAL, which stems from the word “society”. Who are we, as abled people, to exclude those who cannot do everything we can because they were born with or developed a disability? A completely abled user can simply record, edit, and upload a video to Tik-Tok and they can also view and understand Tik-Toks uploaded by other users with no problem. With disabled users (who are also people, in case you forgot), it is our duty to make sure they can create and access the information with the same ease as abled users to get their content across the way they intend to. 

Within the Tik-Tok app, they have it setup so that users can easily edit their accessibility preferences to improve their experience as a viewer and content creator. Profile > Three-lined toolbar at the top right > Settings and Privacy >  Accessibility. On the “accessibility” page of their website, they give all of these details on how to access these settings. This is what Cook calls a cognitive walkthrough. According to Anna E. Cook, a cognitive walkthrough is “a step-by-step exploration of a service to see how well a particular type of user, usually represented by a persona, can accomplish a specific objective or set of goals.” (https://annaecook.com/la-goal-accessibility). It seems like a persona for Tik-Tok’s IxD team was someone with a disability and they expanded the persona based off of different disabilities like blindness, epilepsy, deaf, etc. Including this walkthrough for users provides a guidance for ease of use, therefor creating more opportunities for all people to be a part of a social media based community.

“At TikTok, we’re committed to maintaining an inclusive environment and supporting our diverse community. Inclusivity is important to us because when people feel included, they’re more comfortable expressing themselves authentically, creating content, and engaging with others. Being truly inclusive means building products and tools for everyone. Our cross-functional teams work with our creator community, as well as disability organizations and advocates to help ensure TikTok is accessible to everyone.”

This mission statement by Tik-Tok summarizes their commitment to not being exclusive with their users. They want everyone to feel and be included on their platform (as they should). With Tik-Tok knowing it has become one of the biggest social media platforms over the past couple of years, they want to make people feel like people and how we are all one in the same. Tik-Tok’s team seems to exemplify its avoidance with exclusion habits. In Berkun’s How Design Makes the World, they explain this term as follows: “the more diverse your team is, the more perspectives that will be in the room as ideas are discussed. Even before doing customer research, those perspectives will influence every decision they’re allowed to genuinely contribute to”. There was no research found to correlate with this exact definition about someone being on the team that is also disabled, but they did avoid the exclusion habits by including features for inclusion. All races, genders, orientations, and abilities are welcome as long as you are not posting things to harm others.

https://vm.tiktok.com/ZTdq4L49h/

TikTok by user @katsolytely on the topic of abelism on the app

Despite the obstacles that Tik-Tokers who are disabled go through from day-to-day, this platform allows them to express themselves and educate others so that everyone is aware that they exist and they matter, regardless of whether it’s in person or on social media. Tik-Tok has created a space where they can celebrate disability pride and live without feeling excluded from the rest of the world. 

[mbtiofwhys]

Goro Akechi

ENTJ

Functional Order: Te- Ni - Se - Fi

Spoiler warning This article will cover Akechi’s typing with precise references to both P5 plot and P5R new confidant and added scenes. An additional premise before progressing further: we don’t think Akechi suffers from any form of mental illness, functions loop or even lasting grips. All his problems revolve around a heavy imbalanced stack, consisting of two developed extroverted functions (with the dominant being unhealthy) paired with underdeveloped introverted ones.

Judging Functional Axis

Extroverted Thinking (Te) / Introverted Feeling (Fi)  

Akechi is an absolute pragmatist, always opting for the most efficient, reliable and profitable approach - in right and wrong. His Te is the most developed function in the stack, but during most of the game it doesn’t show in a healthy way. Akechi has a clear goal in mind and knows the steps he needs to take to accomplish it, it doesn’t matter the cost or what he has to sacrifice to achieve Shido’s downfall. He uses logic to solve problems and confront various situations, and can easily come off (reasonably) as cold or over assertive - for example, when he blackmails the Thieves into siding with him to push through Sae’s Palace. And despite being the newest member of the party (and, in theory, the most inexperienced one), Akechi has no problems slipping into lowkey leading roles and bossy attitude, as both Futaba and Ryuji repeatedly point out. This is because, actually, he has a lot more experience in the Metaverse: he’s one of the strongest Persona user in the game and the oldest one, and thus he puts this competence at use, even if he has to lie about his true powers. At the same time, Akechi enjoys being in charge, being efficient and being recognised as competent, at the point that this becomes one of the crucial flaw in his plan against Shido: he never doubted being in complete control of the situation, so he failed to acknowledge Shido’s true intentions and manipulation until his shadow-self revealed them in the engine room. His Te shows even in the feelings of hate and jealousy towards protagonist: Akechi is brilliant, he’s a hard-worker and a celebrity, from a logical standpoint he’s the definition of success in life, and yet why does protagonist have everything Akechi never had? Royal does an additional job of showing how much Akechi cares for competence and competition based on strength and personal abilities, as these themes are carried out over the whole of his confidant. His powerful Te is badly counterbalanced by an underdeveloped inferior Fi. His Introverted Feeling is not only weaker or misused, it is straight absent for a good portion of the game. Looking at inferior Fi on a more superficial and less personal level, we can see how Akechi despises the Thieves’ “justice”, as he doesn’t believe in a justice carried out outside of the law, and this trait doesn’t get lost in the new semester, as he often places sardonic comments on the group’s ideals. Moreover, everything regarding the emotional sphere is deemed as worthless and a sign of weakness - and this, too, stays the same during January. Though, the real problem with his Fi is that it’s so poorly developed that it has no part in his decision making process - even less than what’s the norm for a Te dom, at least. His plan to get revenge on Shido stems from a deep, personal hate and is fueled by the unjust society he lives in, but that is as far as it goes. Akechi never stops for a moment to reflect upon himself, his believes, what he truly wants or feels and, in the end, this leads him pursuing a hollow goal that costs his life in P5 vanilla and almost kills him in Royal. The engine room scene is where events come to a head: with his back against a wall, Akechi must finally acknowledge his own feelings regarding the whole situation, his life decisions and his supposed hate for Joker. In P5 vanilla, this ends with him sacrificing his life in order to let the Thieves escape the ship, since he came to terms with his mistakes and found a way to redeem himself and still fight for a cause by entrusting his mission against Shido to the group/ to protagonist. In Royal, however, we can see a further development of his Fi: it doesn’t properly bloom, but it’s a start. Akechi still remains highly pragmatic and very dismissive of anything regarding feelings, but at the same time he’s more self-aware. We see him finally fighting for something aligned with his moral (rather than for ensuring a “mere” revenge) and with a strong sense of self, rooted in his will to make decisions by his own and follow his own path in life, even if this means he will have to die again once Maruki’s reality will come to an end.

Perceiving Functional Axis

Introverted Intuition (Ni) / Extroverted Sensing (Se) 

Akechi’s Te is paired with a not-so-strong auxiliary Ni. Not that Akechi doesn’t use his Ni - he simply doesn’t use it at even half potential. His Ni is what makes him so focused on a single, long-term goal: getting his revenge against Shido, even if this means working for him for years and committing murders (TeNi). The problem with this lays in the nature of Ni: since it’s an introverted, perceiving function, it needs to abstract outside data to find meaning and patterns to use in decision making. But Akechi, from what the game tells us (because his awakening is never shown) seems to have skipped this process of finding a meaningful and personal outcome to one’s life in the long run - maybe partially because he was angry, and partially because he was young. And thus, he works for something that in the end reveals hollow and meaningless. Ni is paired with Se in the stack, thus it should be supported by the ability to consider more options during the process of data collection. A healthy, high Ni user has a certain amount of flexibility, even as a J. They will never be open to new possibilities like a high Se user, but they should still be able to take reality into consideration while deciphering future scenarios, knowing that life is complex and one can’t rely on a single vision about how things must play out. And Akechi not only overlooked establishing a meaningful goal for himself, he also became obsessed over a single mission without considering a broader spectrum of options through his tertiary Se. We don’t believe he suffers from a TeSe loop, though, because that would mean a person becomes reckless, focused on short-term results and incapable of properly seeing the consequences of his actions. This is probably not Akechi’s case, as he is a very meticulous person who doesn’t act hastily, even under stress (with the sole exception of the engine room scene). For the whole game, he can stay steps ahead of the others, always trying to figure future implications of his actions, and the mistakes he makes (the pancake scene and protagonist's failed murder) are due to a lack of data and information to process, more than recklessness. All those events happen while Akechi is outnumbered: he’s alone against a whole team of Persona user. And even with the Thieves’ plan, a completely unrelated call from Shido is sufficient to raise doubt about the outcome, so much that he personally goes inside Shido’s Palace to check. His tertiary Se is still present though and, as an extroverted function, it shows in more visible manners than his Ni and Fi. Akechi is a TJ, and thus needs plans, structure and closure. This doesn’t mean he’s rigid or slow to act, on contrary, he can adapt pretty quickly as long as the situation is under control. This is due to his tertiary Se, which allows him to live in the world without getting too lost in his mind - a trait that he uses to shape and wear his public persona, the ace detective mask. Moreover, even if he isn’t a P, Akechi learned the basics of the Metaverse alone with hand-to-hand experiences. We can assume that Shido gave him information about the Metaverse, but at the same time Akechi never had a group of peers to consult. During his collaboration with the Phantom Thieves, Akechi not only shows a developed Te -always being ahead of Sae’s schemes to hinder the group- he also takes a more leading role with proactiveness, taking important decisions quickly. Akechi finds a logical and efficient way to solve problems not only as a Te dom, but also due to his Se which aids him with its adaptability and openness, obviously limited since Akechi needs structure first, but still effectively as a tertiary function.

Also typed as: ENTP, ENFJ

ENTP Surprisingly, since it’s a completely different stack. So, why he’s so commonly mistyped as ENTP? The main argument we could find is that he’s an ace detective/ devil’s advocate, but this is quite an oversimplification due to stereotypes. Firstly, because his public persona is different from his actual personality: in front of the cameras, he’s a rookie detective who loves to debate things, but in real life, this practically shows exclusively in his confidant - so, with protagonist. In every other situation, Akechi tends to stay down to earth, with matter-of-factly statements and a tendency to go straight to the point and solve a problem. Moreover, Akechi never shows signs of Ne - the love for debating isn’t a trait exclusive to Ne and Ti users. On contrary, he’s clearly focused on a single goal due to his auxiliary Ni. Also, Ne shouldn’t be confused with Te. Akechi has an admirable ability to understand the underlying patterns of a problem, but not as a way to evaluate a broad set of abstract options, rather as a Te dom tendency to solve a question quickly and efficiently. ENTP also implies Fe, but cognition must be separated from behaviors. Not all Fe users strive for validation, and every human has a need to belong to a certain extent. Akechi seeks Shido’s attention and acceptance because he’s his father, it’s an unhealthy and human reaction to a deep trauma that defined his life. But if we go to the root of his behaviors we can see how Akechi doesn’t care about social harmony or general wellbeing. He’s never influenced by the emotional environment, and he lacks self-awareness because he doesn’t use his inferior Fi, not because he has a poorly developed Fe.

ENFJ ENFJ and ENTJ shares the NiSe perceiving axis, so we can see why ENFJ is a common mistype. At the same time, ENFJ implies dominant Fe. As we stated above, Akechi’s underdeveloped inferior Fi and his traumas may mimic an unhealthy Fe. However, Fe implies a deep will to create the most positive emotional environment for everyone, a tendency to care for the wellbeing of everyone and, if unhealthy, Fe might mask selfish needs with what is best for other people, or shift the blame onto others for personal mistakes and flaws. Akechi does the exact opposite, and it’s very clear during third semester how much he holds dear the concept of free will and the idea of being his own person, with all the bad choices he’s made. He doesn’t care if the world Maruki has created is ideal and peaceful: it’s fake, thus is a manipulation, and he’s done being manipulated, therefore he wants to shatter it because, to him, it’s worthless living a life that isn’t determined by one’s own actions. Additionally, an ENFJ will use dominant Fe paired with his auxiliary Ni to envision the most plausible and realistic process to reach a goal, which generally is something related to the global wellbeing of other people. Akechi, on contrary, is very rational and logical. The best solution is the one involving the most easy route to solve a problem, he never takes social harmony into consideration and never stops considering what others might think: if they’re with him, that’s good, if they don’t agree, he either crush them if they directly oppose him, ignores them, or forces them working with him.