Service Design Tools

Rough Prototyping

Create service concepts rapidly with basic materials. Test ideas cheaply before investing in detailed development. It's about fast learning, not perfection.

Duration
2 hours
Group Size
3-5
Category
Service Design Tools
Difficulty
Easy
Participants will: Test service concepts quickly and cheaply. Make ideas tangible for discussion. Iterate rapidly based on user input. Identify major issues early. Enable collaborative creation. Communicate concepts clearly. Reduce the risk of building the wrong solution.
A rough prototype will be created, providing a tangible artifact and a foundation for user testing.
Focus on the core concept, not visual design. Prototypes should be disposable. Test early and often with real users. Don't get attached to any single version. Use the fastest materials available. Document learnings, not just prototypes. Iterate based on feedback. Increase fidelity gradually. Sometimes, users struggle to provide useful feedback on very low-fidelity prototypes, so be prepared to guide them.

  1. Choose a service aspect to prototype: key interactions, touchpoints, information flows, or environments. 2. Select materials: paper, cardboard, sticky notes, or digital tools. 3. Create a low-fidelity representation, focusing on functionality. 4. Test with users or team members. 5. Gather feedback. 6. Iterate quickly. 7. Increase fidelity as the concept solidifies. 8. Document insights and decisions. 9. Use learnings for the next iteration.

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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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  • Basic crafting materials (paper, cardboard, tape)

  • Markers, pens, sticky notes

  • Digital prototyping tools (optional)

  • User feedback collection materials

  • Testing space and setup

  • Documentation tools

  • Simple props for interaction simulation

  • Timer

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

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