IDEO

IDEO - Frame Your Design Challenge

Framing the design challenge is critical for success. This exercise helps teams articulate the problem, define a suitable scope, and drive toward impactful solutions.

Duration
8 hours
Group Size
4-8
Category
IDEO
Difficulty
Easy
Energy
Medium

Objectives

Participants will articulate a problem, define a design challenge scope, and consider context and constraints. The goal is a design challenge that drives impact and allows for diverse solutions.

Outcomes

A well-framed design challenge, clear problem articulation, and a foundation for solution design.

Step-by-Step Instructions


  1. Write an initial design challenge as a single, memorable sentence (often a "How Might We" question).

  2. Explore and align on impact goals to connect the challenge to desired outcomes.

  3. Define the target audience and ecosystem, clarifying who you're designing for and their context.

  4. Review and refine the design challenge based on team discussion.

  5. Test the challenge by generating at least five possible solutions quickly.

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Facilitator Tips

Generating at least five solutions is key to testing the challenge's scope. Ensure the challenge is solution-oriented and aligned with stakeholder vision. Challenges can arise if the initial challenge is too broad; encourage teams to refine and narrow the scope if needed.

Pre-Work

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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Materials Required


  • Pens

  • Post-it notes

  • Frame Design Challenge worksheet

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Resources & Templates

How Might We Guide
HMW question framing methodology.

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Discussion

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