90-Minute Prototypes

When to use 90-Minute Prototypes

Use this method when you need to quickly generate and visualize potential solutions to a user need, especially when you want to encourage a hands-on, iterative approach to design and development.

What it solves

Analysis paralysis; fear of commitment to a single solution; lack of concrete visualizations of abstract ideas.

How to run 90-Minute Prototypes, step by step

1. Welcome & Introduction (5 min) - Welcome participants, explain the goal of creating clickable app prototypes in 90 minutes, and emphasize a fast-paced, hands-on approach. Divide the group into teams of 2-4.
2. Identify a Need (10 min) - Instruct each group to identify a user need or value gap that could be addressed by a digital service. Provide prompts or use prior research to guide their selection.
3. Ideate (15 min) - Have each group brainstorm a digital service concept based on the identified need. Encourage sketching and note-taking to develop the concept.
4. Sketch (15 min) - Provide iPhone screen templates and instruct each group to sketch at least 4 key app screens, focusing on essential features and user flows.
5. Produce (15 min) - Guide groups to use a prototyping app (like POP App) to upload their sketches and create clickable prototypes. Facilitate sharing of prototypes for presentation.
6. Present (15 min) - Invite each group to present their prototype in a 2-minute presentation, covering the need, service concept, and app flow. Encourage constructive feedback from other groups.
7. Wrap-up (15 min) - Facilitate individual reflection on the experience, followed by group sharing of insights and potential applications in daily work. Close the session.

Materials needed

• Paper
• Markers
• Printed iPhone screen templates
• Prototyping app (e.g., POP App)
• Projector
• Computer with internet access

Facilitator tips

• Encourage participants to focus on the core functionality of the app during the sketching phase.
• Provide technical support for the prototyping app, but also encourage peer-to-peer learning.

Common pitfalls

• Groups getting bogged down in details and not completing the prototype within the time limit. - Remind them to focus on the essential features and user flows.
• Uneven participation within groups. - Encourage active involvement from all members, assigning specific roles if necessary.

Variations

• Use different types of templates (e.g., website, tablet) depending on the service concept.
• Extend the presentation time to allow for more in-depth feedback and discussion.

Running it online or hybrid

Use a collaborative whiteboard tool like Miro or Mural for sketching and uploading prototypes. Ensure all participants have access to a prototyping app that works on their devices.

What it produces

Clickable app prototypes demonstrating key features and user flows.

Origin

Adapted from Hyper Island — source

Build a session around 90-Minute Prototypes

METODIC places 90-Minute Prototypes inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.

Generate a session with 90-Minute Prototypes · Try METODIC free