Testing

Speed Critique

This exercise offers a structured, rapid critique of solution sketches. Each sketch gets three minutes. The team systematically examines ideas, capturing standout elements and concerns efficiently.

Duration
1 hour
Group Size
5-8
Category
Testing
Difficulty
Easy
Efficiently evaluate solutions. Identify strengths and weaknesses. Extract the best ideas. Prepare for final decision-making.
A completed speed critique. Quick feedback gathered. Material for rapid iteration.
Move fast! Three minutes per sketch. Cut off discussions that run long. Energy and pace are critical. When describing, narrate the customer journey: "First, the customer does this, then sees this, and finally, this happens." Don't editorialize. Creators stay silent to let the sketch speak for itself. If something isn't clear from the drawing, that's important feedback. It also prevents defensiveness. Standout ideas might be entire solutions, specific features or interactions, novel approaches, or elements that could combine with other ideas. Success means you've discussed every sketch, captured the best ideas, noted concerns, and maintained energy. Sometimes, the "Creator Reveals" step feels awkward. Reassure creators that this is not a defense of their idea, but a chance to clarify. If a creator struggles to be brief, gently cut them off.
Here's how to run the exercise:

  1. Gather Round (30 seconds): The team gathers around one sketch. The facilitator or scribe gets ready to take notes.

  2. Describe (1 minute): The facilitator describes the sketch out loud, narrating the customer's experience. Do not interpret or evaluate. The creator stays silent.

  3. Quick Call-Out (1 minute): The team calls out standout ideas. The scribe captures them on sticky notes. Note anything interesting, regardless of popularity. No discussion or debate yet.

  4. Concerns (30 seconds): The team voices obvious concerns quickly. Note them and move on; don't solve problems yet.

  5. Creator Reveals (30 seconds): The sketch creator adds missed details, clarifies confusions, and shares the thinking behind key choices. Keep it brief.


After All Sketches:

Review all standout ideas.
 Look for patterns and themes.

  • Prepare for a Straw Poll.

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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  • Sticky notes

  • Markers

  • Timer

  • Solution sketches on the wall

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

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