How to find a unique design concept with Chat GPT

Using ChatGPT to innovate isn’t about letting it do everything for you. If you just take its suggestions as they are, you’ll probably get pretty basic ideas. The trick? Stay involved. By guiding it step by step, you turn ChatGPT into a creative partner instead of just a suggestion tool. It’s not here to replace you—it’s here to help you work better.

A great way to drive innovation is by using conceptual models. They help organize ideas and make systems easy for people to use. Here's how to use them to create app experiences that truly shine..

What Are Conceptual Models?

Conceptual models are like a guide that shows how an app works. They make it easier for users to understand by connecting interactions to things they already know. Using these models helps create designs that feel easy to use and make sense. Some examples are:

• Real-World Analogies – Link digital actions to everyday things, like using a folder to store files.  
• Step-by-Step Processes – Walk users through tasks in clear, simple steps.  
• Spatial Models – Design layouts that feel like how people naturally move through spaces, great for apps focused on exploration.  
• Gaming Metaphors – Turn tasks into fun challenges to keep users engaged and motivated.  
• Command & Control – Create systems that focus on speed and efficiency for experienced users.  
• Object-Oriented Models – Treat each part of your app as its own object with specific behaviors.  
• Ecosystem Models – Combine tools to deliver a seamless, connected experience.  

These approaches not only sharpen your app’s logic but also make it stand out and stick in users’ minds.

Exploring Models with ChatGPT

ChatGPT can be your go-to brainstorming buddy for exploring conceptual models. Just start by asking, “What are some unique conceptual models for [your app idea]?” The key is to keep iterating—refine, tweak, and guide it toward something innovative.

For example, while working on a calendar app for teens focused on time management, I asked ChatGPT for ideas. One standout concept really caught my attention.

Example Conceptual Model: The Time Bank

Concept: Time becomes a form of currency, helping users manage it wisely.

‍How It Works:

• Every user gets 24 "time coins" each day, representing the 24 hours we all have.
• Different activities use up different amounts of coins. For example, studying costs 2 coins, while gaming costs 3.  
• Any unused time coins can be saved and "invested" for future rewards.  ‍

‍Why it works:  

This setup shows teens that time is valuable and limited. It also uses gamification to make planning their day simple and fun.

Next Steps to Bring Ideas to Life

Once you’ve got your concept, don’t just stick to the usual resources. Instead of focusing only on calendar apps, try looking at budgeting apps for inspiration. Check out how they display spending and investments, and see how you can apply those ideas to your own app. After that, run quick design sprints to test if your concept works for users.

Final Thoughts

ChatGPT is a great tool, but it works best when you take charge. Using frameworks like conceptual models can help turn simple app ideas into standout solutions. The secret? Collaboration. ChatGPT gives you options, but it’s your vision and critical thinking that make them shine. Keep experimenting, stay curious, and keep improving—you might be surprised by what you can create.