Let’s be real—talking design with stakeholders can be a bit of a rollercoaster. They often struggle to find the right words to express what they want, and as designers, we sometimes find it challenging to explain our decisions in a way that makes sense to them. I’ve been there, and I’m sure you have too.
I vividly remember a meeting where a stakeholder was visibly frustrated because they couldn’t quite articulate what they were thinking. We had to ask a lot of questions, not just to listen, but to gently guide them to express their ideas more clearly. It was a bit like playing detective, trying to piece together the puzzle of their vision.
That’s when I realized: the key to really understanding and helping stakeholders is to ask the right questions.
The Power of Asking the Right Questions
One of the most essential questions I’ve found is, “What problem are you trying to solve?” It’s straightforward, but it works wonders. This question cuts through the noise and gets to the heart of the issue. Once you understand the problem they’re facing, you can offer better solutions that truly address their needs.
Another question I love is, “What are the advantages of doing it this way?” This invites stakeholders to explain why they think their suggestion is the best approach. It’s a neutral way to compare ideas and helps you understand their reasoning without any pressure.
And don’t be afraid to ask, “What do you suggest?” Sometimes, stakeholders have a strong opinion but aren’t sure how to implement changes. Giving them the space to propose solutions not only helps you understand their needs better but also gives them a peek into the complexity of design work.
Asking, “How will this affect our goals?” is crucial too. Stakeholders often have specific goals in mind but might not see how their suggestions align (or don’t) with those goals. This question helps bring everything into perspective, making it clear why certain ideas might not work as expected.
Finally, a personal favorite of mine is, “Where have you seen this before?” This one is powerful. By asking for references, you’re not dismissing their ideas; you’re diving deeper into their vision. It’s a great way to understand the design patterns they find appealing and see the world from their perspective.
Building Trust Through Good Questions
The main goal of asking these questions isn’t just to gather information. It’s about helping stakeholders articulate what they mean so you can understand them better. Even if you already know what they’re saying, asking thoughtful questions shows that you’re listening and that you care about their input. This builds trust and makes them feel valued.
And here’s the magic: when stakeholders feel heard, they’re more likely to agree with you down the line.
