What is the 80 20 rule in case interview?

Mastering the Case Interview: The 80/20 Rule for Design Success

The design interview is notoriously challenging. It demands not just technical skill, but also the ability to think strategically, communicate effectively, and showcase your design process under pressure. Feeling overwhelmed? The key to success lies in a strategic application of the 80/20 rule: focusing your energy on the highest-impact activities.

In the context of a design case interview, the 80/20 rule translates to a prioritized preparation strategy. Instead of spreading your efforts thinly across all aspects of the interview, dedicate the lion’s share – 80% – to mastering your case study presentation. The remaining 20% should be allocated to refining other crucial elements.

The 80% – Crafting a Compelling Case Study Presentation:

This is the heart of your design interview. Your presentation isn’t just a display of your final solution; it’s a narrative showcasing your entire design thinking process. This 80% should be focused on:

• Deep understanding of the problem: Go beyond surface-level comprehension. Research the industry, understand the user needs, and identify the core challenges. A thorough understanding will inform your design choices and allow you to confidently address interviewer questions.
• Developing a robust solution: This involves sketching, prototyping, and iterating on your design. Don’t just present a finished product; show the evolution of your thinking and the rationale behind your design decisions. Document your process – sketches, user flows, wireframes, etc. – as visual evidence of your work.
• Mastering your presentation skills: Practice, practice, practice. Rehearse your presentation until you can confidently explain your design process and justify your choices. Focus on clear and concise communication, using visuals effectively to tell your story. Anticipate potential questions and prepare concise, insightful answers.

The 20% – Sharpening the Other Edges:

While the case study presentation is paramount, neglecting other aspects can significantly diminish your overall performance. This remaining 20% should encompass:

• Researching the company and team: Understanding the company’s culture, values, and design philosophy allows you to tailor your responses and showcase your alignment with their vision.
• Preparing for behavioral questions: Design interviews often include behavioral questions assessing your teamwork skills, problem-solving abilities, and past experiences. Prepare compelling examples demonstrating your strengths.
• Practicing your communication style: Effective communication is crucial. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely, adapting your style to the interviewer’s questions.
• Understanding the specific design tools the company uses: While not always essential, familiarity with tools commonly used by the team can demonstrate your readiness and adaptability.

By strategically allocating your preparation time using the 80/20 rule, you can maximize your impact during the design interview. Focus on creating a compelling narrative showcasing your design process and supplement it with a solid understanding of the company and your own capabilities. This targeted approach significantly increases your chances of success and transforms a daunting challenge into a showcase of your design talents.