Ideation/Creativity
Crazy 8s
Crazy 8s is a rapid ideation exercise using time constraints and sketching. Generate eight distinct solution ideas in eight minutes. This forces quick iteration and prevents overthinking. It's popular from Google Design Sprints.
Duration
15 mins
Group Size
4-4
Category
Ideation/Creativity
Difficulty
Easy
The goals are to generate many solution ideas quickly. Overcome creative blocks using time pressure. Explore diverse approaches rapidly. Practice visual thinking, even without artistic skill.
You'll get completed Crazy 8s sheets. Expect rapid idea generation and a high volume of concepts.
Artistic ability doesn't matter. Stick figures work. The time constraint is key to preventing overthinking. Call out the time at each minute mark to keep energy up. If anyone finishes early, suggest variations or wilder ideas. Markers are better than pencils. They discourage detail. Some will struggle with "not enough time." Reassure them that's the point. I've seen this work best after a problem is well-defined. Try combining it with Solution Sketch for deeper development. Sometimes, participants get frustrated; acknowledge that the speed is part of the process.
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