Strategy

Powers of Ten

Explore design across scales, from atoms to global systems. Inspired by the Eames film "Powers of Ten," zoom in and out to reveal systemic implications and impacts at micro and macro levels.

Duration
30 mins
Group Size
4-8
Category
Strategy
Difficulty
Easy
Participants will understand design impacts across multiple scales. They will identify systemic implications and consider unintended consequences at different levels. The goal is to think beyond immediate user interaction.
Participants will apply the "Powers of Ten" concept. They will practice zooming in and out on a design. They will gain an understanding of multiple perspectives and scales.
This exercise, inspired by the Eames film "Powers of Ten," reveals unintended consequences at different scales. It often exposes environmental, social, or economic impacts teams hadn't considered. Don't skip the "zoom in" - the atomic level reveals crucial material and energy implications. This works well for sustainability considerations, social impact assessments, and system design. Push teams beyond comfortable scales; global and atomic levels are often neglected. Not all impacts will be negative; teams may discover positive externalities. You can focus on specific dimensions like environmental, social, economic, or technical aspects. It's best used mid-design when changes are still feasible. Sometimes, teams struggle with the atomic scale. Be prepared to offer examples or guide the discussion.

  1. Start at Human Scale (5 minutes). Begin with immediate user interaction. Describe a typical use scenario. Focus on the person and their immediate experience. This is "scale 0" - the baseline.

  2. Zoom Out (12 minutes). Progressively expand the scope, considering impacts:

Room/Space level: How does it affect the immediate environment?
Building level: What is the impact on a household or office?
Neighborhood/Community: What is the effect on the local area?
City level: What are the urban or municipal implications?
Regional level: What are the state or regional effects?
National level: What are the country-wide implications?
Global level: What are the worldwide impacts (environmental, cultural, economic)?

At each scale, ask:
"What changes at this level?"
"Who else is affected here?"
"What resources are involved?"
"What systems interact at this scale?"

  1. Zoom In (8 minutes). Go smaller than human interaction:

Details level: Specific UI elements, micro-interactions.
Component level: Individual parts and materials.
Molecular level: What materials and substances are involved?
Atomic level: What is the environmental chemistry and energy involved?

At each scale, ask:
"What materials or energy are required?"
"What processes happen here?"
"What is the impact at this fundamental level?"

  1. Synthesis (5 minutes). Review all scales mapped. Identify surprising impacts discovered. Note scales where most concern exists. Discuss design changes based on insights. Document key findings.

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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

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Whiteboard or large paper
Markers in different colors
Sticky notes
"Powers of Ten" film (optional)
Scale diagram template (optional)
Impact assessment framework (optional)
Sustainability checklist (optional)
System boundary map (optional)

Unlock Materials Required

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

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Discussion

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