Design Thinking vs. Double Diamond: Which Framework Should You Use?
When it comes to tackling complex design challenges, two frameworks often take centre stage: the Design Thinking process and the Double Diamond design model. Both help teams solve problems creatively and deliver user-centred solutions, yet they approach the journey from insight to innovation in slightly different ways. Understanding when and how to use each can make all the difference in your UX and product design projects.
Understanding the Design Thinking Process
Design Thinking is a human-centred approach that focuses on understanding users, challenging assumptions, and redefining problems. It typically follows five stages: Empathise, Define, Ideate, Prototype, and Test.
This framework encourages collaboration and experimentation. Designers use it to explore what users truly need, rather than what stakeholders assume they want. For example, during the empathise stage, researchers might observe users interacting with an existing product to uncover pain points. Later, in the ideate stage, teams generate as many ideas as possible before testing quick prototypes.
The Design Thinking process is flexible, non-linear, and well-suited for teams working in fast-moving industries or on projects that require deep user insights.
What Is the Double Diamond Design Model?
The Double Diamond was developed by the Design Council UK as a simple visual representation of the creative process. It consists of two diamonds that represent divergent and convergent thinking.
The first diamond focuses on Discover and Define. Teams explore the problem space broadly before narrowing down to a clear challenge. The second diamond represents Develop and Deliver, where solutions are created, tested, and implemented.
Unlike Design Thinking, the Double Diamond design model offers a structured roadmap that helps teams manage projects from research to delivery. It is particularly valuable for organisations that prefer a more systematic approach to innovation while still keeping the user at the centre.
Comparing the Two Frameworks
At first glance, Design Thinking and Double Diamond might appear almost identical. In fact, many practitioners use them together. Design Thinking provides a mindset and set of methods, while the Double Diamond offers a process structure.
The key difference lies in flexibility. Design Thinking encourages iteration and creative exploration at any stage, whereas the Double Diamond outlines a more linear progression through discovery, definition, development, and delivery. For projects that require clear milestones and stakeholder alignment, the Double Diamond framework can be easier to manage. For projects demanding deeper empathy and user validation, Design Thinking may be the better fit.
When to Use Each
Use Design Thinking when:
- You are exploring a new product idea or redesigning an existing service.
- You need to build empathy and uncover user needs.
- Your project benefits from rapid prototyping and iterative testing.
Choose the Double Diamond when:
- You require a clear project structure and timelines.
- Your team needs alignment across departments.
- You are scaling design processes across multiple projects.
Final Thoughts
Both frameworks share the same goal: to create meaningful, user-centred solutions. Rather than viewing Design Thinking vs. Double Diamond as a competition, consider them complementary. The mindset of Design Thinking can bring empathy and creativity to the structured clarity of the Double Diamond.
If you would like to explore these frameworks in practice and build real design skills, take a look at our UX and Product Design courses at Experience Haus. They offer a hands-on way to apply these ideas and shape the next step in your creative journey.
