A technical conversation is more useful when it starts with a specific uncertainty. Asking an expert for general approval can produce a broad answer that does not resolve the design decision.
IDEO.org's Expert Interview method uses specialist knowledge to build understanding of a topic. IDEO.org Design Kit — Expert Interview.
Match expertise to the question
For an embroidered character, a material specialist and a licensing specialist answer different questions. Explain the actual construction or use being considered and identify what remains undecided.
Preserve the evidence boundary
Record whether the response is a general principle, an application-specific opinion or a conclusion based on testing. Follow up with the evidence needed for the actual decision. An interview should improve the review plan rather than become an unsupported certification claim.
Source reviewed 25 October 2026. Interpretation and original diagrams: PLUSHIP / Qunhe. Examples are illustrative.
Related reading
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Design Principles Need to Help Resolve a Real Conflict