Appreciative Inquiry
Appreciative Inquiry is a collaborative approach to appreciating the value
of the present situation in order to suggest positive directions for the future. This approach is in contrast to
more conventional methods that start with a problem that needs to be solved. Read more…
Brainstorming is the rapid co-creation of ideas. It is used to tap into a collective body of knowledge and creativity and to foster innovation. Read more…
Bodystorming
Bodystorming is a method of physically testing new ideas. It requires the physical
setting up of a situation (with objects and people. The most important aspect of bodystorming is the manner in which
people act and interact in the physical environment.Read more…
Card Metaphors
Card metaphors are used to physically and easily demonstrate how complex design
ideas can be re-purposed and organised. Read more…
Field Walks
Field walks involve the use of walking as a way to gather insights on the embodied
experience of a place. They entail conversations while moving along a path, which are documented as instances that
are connected to a particular place. While walking and talking, creative ideas are exchanged and discussed. Read more…
Focus Groups
A focus group involves bringing together a group of people to share their opinions,
concerns and perceptions regarding ideas, concepts, services, plans, goals etc. The participants are usually carefully
chosen beforehand. A moderator is usually chosen to guide the flow of discussions within the focus group. The main
attraction of focus groups is the dynamic it creates; interesting discussions can yield interesting ideas or challenges
to consider in the design process. Read more…
Interviews
Interviews are used to develop a deeper understanding of a given situation through
well thought out questioning and follow up. Interviews require direct contact with participants, discussing their
experiences, opinions, attitudes, etc. They often take place face-to-face; however, they can also take place over
the phone or through social media outlets. Read more…
Low Fidelity Prototyping
Low-Fidelity Prototyping is a simple way to make ideas tangible, to
learn through making, and to quickly get key feedback on design concepts. Read more…
Personas
Personas are archetypical descriptions of people representing the potential different
user types using a product or a service . They are usually used to shape the design focus, identify opportunities
and challenges in designing for different user groups, and aid in design development and communication. They are
usually devised and refined from information collected from real users. Read more…
Narrative Scenarios
Narrative scenarios are used to establish the details of how the proposed
design is likely to be used. They challenge the participants to carefully map out how an intended design would be
used and in doing so, the completed narrative scenarios can help envision how the product/service might be used in
real life situations. Read more…
Sketching in hardware
Sketching in hardware is commonly used to test ideas quickly as it allows
nontechnical users to experience what can be created with technology within a limited amount of time. Sketching in
hardware prototyping activities are usually facilitated by a designer and/or a technical expert. Read more…
