FOSTERING A CULTURE OF DESIGN THINKING
The forum is a multidisciplinary organisation which also acts as a hub collaboration and co-creation. Leveraging this quality of the space, I have been able to conduct formative user research and design workshops with internal and external stakeholders. This has been deeply appreciated by peers and leadership from across disciplines.
User archetypes
When designing for a non exhaustive list of users, understanding the key user types can be a useful tool. The ‘extremes’ and ‘mainstreams’ for Toplink users.
Extreme users.
Mainstream users.
User interviews
A general interview can help build a more 3-dimensional understanding of our users and allow us to not view their behaviour through the lens of one particular feature. We reached out to three diverse users within the expert network community and engaged in a 30 minute dialogue. The overarching aim was to develop a better understanding of their behaviour and motivations.
Insights from conversations with ‘expert network members’.
DESIGN thinking workshops
An ongoing activity, I started a working group to help peers learn more about user centered design by conducting design workshops and exercises. The aim was to help generate empathy for their respective communities and channel their creativity towards thinking digitally.
EXERCISE
A brainstorming exercise that allows internal stakeholders to put themselves in the shoes of their constituents and think about their needs.
Moving together
Helping everyone come to a consensus by a simple voting activity.