Design Process

The basic steps in the design process are as follows:

1. Define the user scenarios. Brainstorm and sketch ideas. Make sure you have a clear, technical understanding of both the flexibility and constraints of the Windows Media Center platform.
2. Create prototypes. Test and refine. Repeat until you have a final design. Prototypes of the design can be implemented as wireframes using only simple color blocks to evaluate navigation models early on while the design is still fluid and adjustable.
3. Implement the design in working code. Always start with layout and data binding. The experience should be highly usable before any animations are added to polish the look and feel of the experience.
4. Fix the bugs and refine the design (fit and finish). Typically, animations are added at this stage of the design.

See Also

• Designing Applications for Windows Media Center