User Experience Inspiration: Starting with a Blank Slate

In a session entitled "Tabula Rasa - Methods for jumping into UI Design" at the recently held User Experience Camp in Washington (#uxcampdc), Brian Talbot lead us in a discussion on starting with a blank slate. A number of great ideas came out of that discussion. Since I really enjoy reading logs of tools that other folks use to brainstorm and flesh out ideas before/while they work, I thought I'd provide my own here.Thanks to the session, I learned about a couple new tools and techniques that I've already incorporated into my routine:

1. Make a list. Check it twice, or a few times. When it comes to starting with a blank slate, I like to make a list before even considering drawing one box. This list usually includes the items I need to incorporate on a page or within a site section. Doing so allows me to prioritize the content I need to account for, and forces me to stay aligned with the overall goals for the site. A great tool to help you with this is a Page Description Diagram.
2. Look around. What better place to search for web design inspiration than on the web? I use a great design inspiration site called Pattern Tap to scour the web for ideas. There are also a number of great sites that can help satisfy your hunger for inspiration hunger, including:
   • Smashing Magazine
   • Web Creme
   • Inspire UX
3. Create your own inspiration library. I discovered a new tool at UX Camp called Little Snapper. This application allows you to create your own personal inspiration library. A simple menu bar icon enables you to instantaneously grab snapshots of patterns or pages on the web, and then tag and file them for later searches. Additionally, the application allows you to annotate and tag your screen captures for later retrieval when you're searching for inspiration.
4. Go for a walk. Get a cup of coffee. (No explanation needed.)
5. Start sketching. For my money, it doesn't get any better than sitting down with a good old pencil and a pad of paper. Armed with your fresh inspiration and prioritized lists, have at it. Start fleshing out some ideas. Collaboration, here, is key. If you're on a team, show some of your sketches to them. A fresh set of eyes (or two) will always help you gain a better perspective. For those of you who can't draw, check out a tool called Balsamiq Mockups. This application enables you to quickly put together a digital sketch of an interface idea. Its simple approach and its close ties to a real sketch allow you and your reviewers to focus on the functionality of the product and not on other design issues.

So, if you're starting with a blank slate, I hope this helps you find at least one tip or source of inspiration to get you on your way to a great new UI.

Share your tips with me.

Do you have any tips? Let me know in the comments!