Welcome

Curated knowledge for product design practitioners and leaders

DesignReference.xyz is a product design knowledge base covering UX Methods, Cognitive Tools, and Leadership offering insights to equip both designers and managers with the tools needed to navigate challenges and achieve success.

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Sponsored by GitBook and built by Tony O'Donohoe, DesignReference.xyz comprises over 160,000 words spanning over 320 pages as well as countless resource links and videos. With close on 3,000 monthly visits, it is referenced by leading Silicon Valley firms, open source communities, education institutes and major AI platforms.

The Collection

UX Methods

Find the right UX methods for any stage of the product design process. Methods and activities are grouped into three sections: Discovery, Ideation, and Testing, based on an eight-phase process.

Cognitive Tools

Great minds across all professions have dedicated time to formulating theories, laws, and frameworks to assist others. This area serves as an access point to that expertise relating to product design.

Leadership

The Leadership section offers insights and materials tailored to equip both new and seasoned design managers and leaders with the tools needed to navigate the specific challenges of design leadership.

Featured Content

UX Methods

5 WhysCustomer Journey MappingUsability TestingDesign Failure Mode & Effects Analysis (DFMEA)

Cognitive Tools

Jakob's LawPeak-End RulePrioritisation MatrixFirst Principles Thinking

Leadership

Good ManagersBad ManagersResponsible, Accountable, Consulted, Informed (RACI)Performance Management

DesignReference.xyz by Tony O'Donohoe