Prior to embarking on any design project, whether the end product is a website, a graphic or visual artwork, a lifestyle item or gadget, the most important and first step any designer should take is to do ample design research.

Doing the research is relatively simple. However, it’s the task of trying to understand and apply the research to benefit your project that is not easy. There are numerous methods to go about doing design research. Regardless of the method used to gather the research needed, it is a process that cannot and should not be avoided.

This article will explore the steps you can take to develop a good research habit prior to the start of any design project.