Design process
We start by getting a solid grasp of the new community and their context, figuring out what challenges we’re tackling and understanding if we are in dialogue with AUG’s goals, values, and mission.
From there, we jump into user research, working closely with AUG’s diverse team—think architects, local designers, locals, engineers, sociologists, and psychologists—all bringing their unique skills to the table to co-create and refine solutions together and make sure the branding is not only practical but also human-centered. We test ideas after deep dialogues and workshops, and lean on previous prototype research, tweaking things as we go, since every process is unique.
After launch, we take a step back, review everything and by putting it all in numbers, we can clearly see which goals we’ve successfully supported and which needs we’ve not met.
Observe.
Why, context, challenge.
The first phase of a project—our “discovery” phase—focuses on understanding the why, setting context, and defining challenges. It involves identifying the core problem or opportunity, exploring the broader environment, and clarifying key obstacles. This is also a learning phase: getting to know the community, their culture, and traditions to ensure the design truly resonates. It lays the foundation for a shared understanding of the project’s goals within its specific context.
by: Site visit, interviews, photo documentation, site drawings, context analysis.
Identify.
Who, target, user, facts.
This phase—Target Definition and Needs Assessment—is about gathering key data, facts, and real-world insights to understand the challenges our main target faces, whether social, economic, or environmental. We dig into their urgent needs and aspirations to ensure our solutions have real, lasting impact. It keeps us grounded in reality, not assumptions, so we can address critical priorities and truly improve lives.
by: Gather social and economic indicators from official national statistics sources.
Approach.
How, strategy, interact.
The Approach phase is about defining the how—the strategy and direction we’ll follow. Here, we set clear goals, establish a solid strategy, and outline the processes to bring the vision to life. It shapes how we engage with the community, stakeholders, and team, ensuring collaboration at every step. This phase lays the groundwork for a successful and sustainable outcome.
by: Workshops, forward planning, collaborative dialogue, abstract concepts, conceptual sketches.
Design.
Programmering, development, co-create.
This phase is about turning abstract concepts into tangible plans, illustrations and prototyping—with a focus on fluid communication and ongoing interaction to ensure the design meets both functional and aesthetic goals.
The vision takes shape, adjusting as needed to local detailed design work, local materials and hands-on prototyping.
by: Technical drawings, visual diagrams, images, design illustrations, and construction detailing.
Implement.
Work in the field.
In this phase, designs are brought to life in the field. At AUG, we uphold the highest standards of integrity, ensuring transparency and preventing corruption at every step.
Resources are used responsibly and impartially—free from political or religious bias. This phase focuses on making sure our work is executed with the utmost care, respect, and dedication to the communities we serve.
by: collaborating architects & local NGOs, formalized contracts, and clear communication channels.
Evaluate.
Results and UN sustainability goals.
After the project has been inuse, we step back to assess its impact—measuring how well we’ve addressed the identified needs. We also evaluate how the roject aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), using data to show which goals we’ve supported, which needs we’ve met, and where there’s room to improve.
This phase ensures our work is effective, sustainable, and meaningful in the long term.