Observe

Analyze

Reference third party research findings

The above process is what I've been using since 2004 before designing solutions.

I've been using the process before I knew about UXD and IxD. A focus on observation and then analyzing was introduced to me by a (heavily under rated and un-recognized) combat strategist (the first of a few strategic thinkers who have advanced and honed my strategic thinking capabilites) with extensive knowledge of economics, society and politics and their role in world wide events.

Researching or reviewing similar scenarios/situations the way a judge reviews previous cases before making a judgement seems to aid in speeding up the decision making process. The difference between a Judge using the previous cases and myself is that the judge is obliged to follow previous case judgements while I rethink my observation and analysis when they do not match up with third party research findings.

I've seen academic institutions focus on previous research first and then analyzing the research by combining the results with a researchers own observations. That may work but it risks the student being forced to follow the original researchers singular train of thought rather than having students form multiple thought processes of their own.

A few may be more comfortable with a Observe, Research and then Analyze process which can save time and resources compared to an Observe, Analyze and then Research process when extensive prior research on a particular process currently exists.

I prefer my analysing my own research findings before reviewing third party research when I'm unsatisfied with third party research findings and summaries especially when the third party research gathering and analysis accuracy may not be up to par and/or the research findings and summaries are not structured in a manner that isn't possible to be read by someone apart from the original researcher themselves!