Google Design

Lightning Demos

Get inspired by solutions from various industries. Participants research 2-3 examples and present them in 3-minute demos. Look for patterns and transferable ideas to spark creativity.

Duration
40 mins
Group Size
4-7
Category
Google Design
Difficulty
Easy
Quickly gather diverse inspiration. Identify patterns in successful solutions. Avoid reinventing the wheel. Inspire creative thinking using real-world examples.
Lightning demos completed. Inspiration gathered from outside the usual suspects. Fresh perspectives on existing challenges.
Pre-work is crucial; participants must research beforehand. Push them to look outside their industry for unexpected inspiration. Strictly enforce the 3-minute limit to maintain energy. Capture everything visually. Avoid critiques during presentations; just capture and move on. Patterns often emerge: simplicity, progressive disclosure, delightful details. This exercise works well before ideation. Don't directly copy ideas; seek inspiration and core principles. I've had teams research together the day before, while others prefer individual work.

  1. Research (Pre-Workshop): Each participant researches 2-3 inspiring examples beyond direct competitors. Look across industries for similar problems. Find examples of onboarding flows, checkout processes, data visualization, or anything relevant to the challenge. Screenshot or bookmark these examples.

  2. Lightning Presentations (30 minutes): Each person presents their examples (3 minutes each). Show the interface or product. Explain what's interesting and inspiring. Highlight specific elements. Enforce the 3-minute limit strictly.

  3. Note Taking (During Presentations): Capture interesting ideas on a whiteboard. Draw quick sketches of compelling elements. Note patterns across presentations. Write down "big ideas" that emerge. Star particularly strong examples.

  4. Pattern Discussion (10 minutes): Review all captured ideas. Identify recurring themes. Discuss what made the examples work. Consider how these patterns apply to the current challenge. Select ideas to explore in ideation.

Unlock Step-by-Step Instructions

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For Facilitators

  • Review participant profiles and expectations
  • Prepare all materials and supplies
  • Test technology and room setup

For Participants

  • Complete pre-session survey
  • Review background materials
  • Prepare examples or case studies

Unlock Pre-Work Requirements

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  • Devices for presenting examples (laptop, tablet)

  • Whiteboard or large paper

  • Markers

  • Timer

  • Projector or large screen

  • Pre-printed research template (optional)

  • Screenshot sharing method (optional)

  • Example inspiration list (optional)

  • Video recording (optional)

Unlock Materials Required

Create a free account to access step-by-step instructions, agendas, and resources for all activities.

  • Facilitator Guide (PDF)
  • Participant Workbook Template
  • Presentation Slides
  • Printable Materials

Unlock Resources & Templates

Create a free account to access step-by-step instructions, agendas, and resources for all activities.

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