Co-Designing Transition Experiments

When to use Co-Designing Transition Experiments

Use this method when you need to develop innovative solutions to complex societal problems by engaging diverse stakeholders in a collaborative design process, particularly in the context of urban planning or community development.

What it solves

Lack of stakeholder buy-in, solutions that are not practical or sustainable, difficulty translating abstract ideas into concrete action plans.

How to run Co-Designing Transition Experiments, step by step

1. Engage with a Place-Based Project (30 mins). Introduce a real-world project with existing challenges and stakeholders. Have participants research the project's context, stakeholders' needs, and recent changes.
2. First Brainstorm (20 mins). Individually or in teams, generate initial ideas for a place-based experiment. Encourage creative thinking and focus on long-term goals, alignment with existing plans, and addressing user needs.
3. Using the Card Deck (40 mins). Collaboratively develop one experiment concept using the Co-Designing Transition Experiments card deck and instruction worksheet. Ensure detailed responses and revisit earlier topics as needed.
4. Pair up for Co-Design (40 mins). Pair teams working on different projects and have them use the card deck collaboratively on both projects, taking turns to provide peer feedback.
5. Co-Design with Key Stakeholders (120-240 mins). Organize a co-design session with relevant stakeholders using the card deck. Facilitate the session based on previous experiences and consider holding it in a public space.

Materials needed

• Co-Designing Transition Experiments card deck
• Instruction worksheet
• Example project (optional)
• Worksheet for brainstorming
• Sticky notes
• Flip charts
• Markers

Facilitator tips

• Encourage students to take the lead in organizing and facilitating the co-design session.
• Provide support by helping book a location or providing materials.

Common pitfalls

• Stakeholders not fully engaged: Ensure clear communication and demonstrate the value of their participation.
• Ideas that are not feasible: Guide participants to consider practical constraints and available resources.

Variations

• Adapt the card deck to focus on specific themes or sectors (e.g., energy, mobility).
• Use different brainstorming techniques to generate initial ideas.

Running it online or hybrid

Use a virtual whiteboard tool like Miro or Mural to replicate the card deck and collaborative workspace. Facilitate breakout rooms for smaller group discussions and stakeholder engagement.

What it produces

A well-defined transition experiment plan with clear goals, stakeholder engagement strategies, and feasibility assessments, documented in a videographic presentation.

Origin

Based on work by Guido Knibbe and the UvA Placemaking team, inspired by Loorbach, Rotmans & Kemp (2016) — source

Build a session around Co-Designing Transition Experiments

METODIC places Co-Designing Transition Experiments inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.

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