Describe a challenging design problem you encountered and how you approached solving it.

Sample answer to the question

One challenging design problem I encountered was creating a seamless onboarding process for a mobile banking app. The goal was to make it easy for users to sign up and start using the app without any friction. To approach solving this problem, I started by conducting user research to understand the pain points and expectations of potential users. Based on the research findings, I created wireframes and prototypes to test different onboarding flows. Through iterative testing and feedback sessions, I refined the design to improve the user experience. I also collaborated closely with the engineering team to ensure the feasibility of the proposed solutions. The final onboarding process included a streamlined registration flow with clear instructions and minimal input requirements. The result was an intuitive onboarding experience that reduced drop-off rates and increased user engagement.

A more solid answer

One of the most challenging design problems I encountered was when I was tasked with redesigning the user interface of a complex enterprise software used by a major healthcare provider. The software had a cluttered and outdated interface, making it difficult for users to navigate and perform their tasks efficiently. To approach solving this problem, I started by conducting user interviews and usability testing to understand the pain points and needs of the users. Based on the findings, I created wireframes and interactive prototypes, focusing on improving the information architecture, task flows, and visual hierarchy. I collaborated closely with the development team, providing them with detailed design specifications and guidelines. I also conducted regular design reviews with key stakeholders to gather feedback and iterate on the designs. The end result was a modern and intuitive user interface that significantly improved the user experience and efficiency of the software.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides a more comprehensive description of a challenging design problem and how the candidate approached solving it. It includes specific details about the enterprise software being redesigned, the user research methods used, the collaboration with the development team, and the regular design reviews with stakeholders. The answer also highlights the focus on improving user experience and efficiency. However, it could further improve by providing more information on attention to detail, managing multiple projects, and the application of user-centered design principles.

An exceptional answer

One particularly challenging design problem I encountered was when I was working on a redesign of a popular e-commerce website. The problem was that the website had a high bounce rate and low conversion rate, indicating that users were leaving the site without making a purchase. To tackle this, I conducted a thorough analysis of the user flow, heatmaps, and click-through rates to pinpoint the problem areas. I discovered that the checkout process had several usability issues, including a confusing layout and too many steps. To address this, I completely redesigned the checkout process, simplifying the layout, reducing the steps, and adding progress indicators to guide users through the process. I also implemented a guest checkout option and improved the error messaging to reduce user frustration. The result was a significant reduction in bounce rate and an increase in conversion rate, leading to a boost in sales for the client.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer goes above and beyond in describing a challenging design problem and the candidate's approach to solving it. It includes specific details about the e-commerce website's high bounce rate and low conversion rate, as well as the user analysis methods used to identify the issues. The answer also highlights the comprehensive redesign of the checkout process, including simplifying the layout, reducing steps, and improving error messaging. The impact on business metrics, such as the reduction in bounce rate and increase in conversion rate, further demonstrates the effectiveness of the solution. The answer could still be improved by providing more information on collaboration, attention to detail, and managing multiple projects.

How to prepare for this question

Familiarize yourself with user-centered design principles and practices, as they are essential for approaching and solving design problems.
Develop strong problem-solving skills by practicing analyzing and breaking down complex problems into manageable components.
Improve collaboration skills by working on cross-functional projects, communicating and collaborating effectively with different stakeholders.
Pay attention to detail in your design work and emphasize the importance of delivering highly polished and user-friendly prototypes.
Learn how to manage multiple projects simultaneously by prioritizing tasks, setting clear goals and deadlines, and effectively managing your time and resources.

What interviewers are evaluating

Problem-solving skills
Collaboration skills
User-centered design
Attention to detail
Ability to manage multiple projects