Is Design a process or moves

There is an interesting relationship between design and dance.

In dance, beginners start out by learning basic patterns. Just as is the case with design thinking and service design, where the simple and appealing 5, 6 or 7-step processes from books, universities and famous companies lure participants into enjoying design.

Both beginner dancers and designers have fun and enjoy the experiences, believing they are doing great.

When they progress further, they become intermediary dancers and designers. But here, the teachers and mentors suddenly change attitudes and want the participants to break free of the learned patterns and to mix-n-match what they learn with a bit of enthusiasm and creativity.

But why? Because dance and design are not achieved by repeating basic patterns. It's about moving and using all that is in the participants to create the best results.

What about you?

Do you follow the steps in the given process? ... or do you move and create your best results?