Collaboration between designers and developers can be challenging, especially in large or remote organizations. In smaller, in-person teams, spontaneous interaction is easier, but larger organizations often require a more structured, calendar-based approach to communication. However, even in these settings, balancing focused work with flexible availability is crucial to maintain productivity and prevent work bottlenecks.
The “shoulder tap” method
One simple yet effective way to foster better collaboration is the “shoulder tap” method. This approach involves developers proactively reaching out to designers before starting any task or ticket related to UI/UX design. A quick, informal check-in — either face-to-face or via a Zoom call — allows both parties to align on the task requirements, clarify expectations, and discuss any potential issues upfront.
The “shoulder tap” method is proactive rather than reactive. By discussing tasks before development begins, teams can prevent misunderstandings and mistakes, reducing the need for rework and improving overall project efficiency.
Why businesses should care about collaboration
- Increased job satisfaction and engagement: Collaboration fosters a positive work environment, significantly boosting job satisfaction and engagement. When employees feel their ideas are valued and considered, they are more motivated and productive, leading to stronger connections with coworkers and a more engaged workforce.
- Better business results: Purposeful collaboration is vital for high-performance organizations to achieve their desired outcomes. When teams work together with clear goals, they are more likely to meet their objectives and drive success.
- Minimizing communication breakdowns: Effective collaboration minimizes communication breakdowns, which are often the root cause of mistakes and delays. A 2017 study by the Institute for Corporate Productivity found that organizations promoting collaborative working are five times more likely to be high-performing.
“Shoulder tap” method benefits
- Higher-quality work: According to research by project management software provider Wrike, teams that collaborate effectively make fewer mistakes. The survey found that 88% of respondents believed communication breakdowns were the primary cause of project delays and failures. The “shoulder tap” method minimizes these breakdowns, resulting in fewer errors and less rework.
- Increased employee happiness: Encouraging collaboration can create a more positive environment that improves employee morale and retention. Studies show that when employees feel their input is respected and considered, they experience a 50% increase in job satisfaction. Moreover, forming strong connections with coworkers in collaborative settings enhances engagement.
- A sense of purpose: A study of over 1,100 companies revealed that the effectiveness of collaboration is largely driven by purpose. When teams collaborate with a clear purpose, they achieve better business outcomes. For example, Patagonia, one of the companies highlighted in the study, utilizes purposeful collaboration to drive its desired results.
Using the “shoulder tap” method with your team
For the “shoulder tap” method to be effective, both designers and developers need to adopt an open and receptive attitude. Designers should be ready to provide prompt feedback, while developers should seek clarification whenever necessary. This mutual engagement enhances the productivity of both roles and, by extension, the entire team.
Practical tips for implementing
- Set clear expectations: Define the tasks requiring a “shoulder tap” and ensure all team members understand when and how to use this method.
- Choose the right tools: To make the process seamless, utilize tools that facilitate quick, informal check-ins, such as Slack or Zoom.
- Encourage regular feedback: Encourage a culture where both designers and developers feel comfortable providing and receiving feedback.
Try this proactive approach to collaboration
If you want to improve collaboration between designers and developers, the “shoulder tap” approach can be a game-changer. However, remember that it’s not just about the technique itself but also about how teams implement it within the broader context of their communication strategies.
By adopting the “shoulder tap” method, your team can achieve higher-quality work, improved job satisfaction, and a greater sense of purpose — all while minimizing mistakes and encouraging a collaborative culture.
