Season 5

|

Episode 6

Envisioning the art of the

possible

Michael Wandelmaier

Head of Design @ Metalab

Nick Basile

Thinking like a

developer

Level up your technical understanding to become a

better communicator, collaborator, and designer,

without learning to code.

Apr 4, 2024

|

53 mins

music by Dennis 

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About this Episode

From the onset of my design journey, Metalab has always been my inspiration. Therefore, this interview holds a unique place as we glean insights from their Lead Designer, Michael Wandelmeier.

We delve into understanding Metalab's design process and discuss particular tactics related to:

Mike’s preferred narrative strategies

The significance of assertive design

When project limitations are disregarded

Their distinct method of illustrating user paths

Guidelines for managing consensus on intricate initiatives

Utilizing the “absurdly premature supposition” approach

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Show Notes

Ian Wharton (storytelling coach)

Upwork (example client)

Transcript chapters

[00:00:00] Overview of how Metalab works

[00:01:59] How to run a great project kickoff meeting

[00:05:19] A different way to think about user journey maps

[00:07:33] Why Mike uses the "Ridiculously early hypothesis"

[00:12:18] Strategies for driving alignment with clients

[00:16:03] How Metalab's process evolves for startups vs. big-

name brands

[00:18:11] Understanding the core Metalab process

[00:21:26] Designing to find answers vs. finding answers to design

[00:23:21] Importance of storytelling in the informal working

context

[00:26:00] Traits of designers who are great storytellers

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"