The LOLLI Framework
A structured yet flexible approach to human-centered design
The LOLLI framework provides a clear progression from problem discovery to solution implementation, while maintaining a consistent focus on human needs, behaviors, and contexts. It guides practitioners through five essential phases:
Look
Explore the problem space from different angles to ensure you're addressing the right challenges before investing in deeper research.
Key Activities:
- Problem framing
- Design rationale development
- Establishing patterns & priorities
Obtain
Gather information directly from users through research, observation, and participatory methods to understand their needs and behaviors.
Key Activities:
- Ethnographic research
- Participatory research
- Evaluative research
Learn
Synthesize research findings into meaningful patterns and insights that can inform design decisions.
Key Activities:
- Identifying patterns & priorities
- Mapping people & systems
- Validating insights
Leverage
Use insights to generate and develop concepts that address user needs in innovative ways.
Key Activities:
- Concept ideation
- Design rationale documentation
- Collaborative design
Implement
Bring concepts to life through prototyping and testing, making designs tangible and interactive.
Key Activities:
- Modeling & prototyping
- User testing
- Iterative refinement
Benefits of the LOLLI Framework
Comprehensive Coverage
Encompasses the entire design process, ensuring no critical steps are overlooked.
Method Diversity
With over 100 design methods organized into logical categories, practitioners can select the most appropriate techniques.
Progressive Knowledge Building
Each phase builds upon the insights from the previous phase, creating a coherent knowledge path.
Adaptable Structure
While sequential in nature, the framework accommodates iteration and flexibility.
Human-Centered Foundation
Maintains focus on the people who will ultimately use or be affected by the designs.
Balanced Perspective
Ensures adequate attention to both problem understanding and solution development.