explore · Problem Solving · 30–60 min · 2-10 people · medium energy
Design Questions
Design Questions help teams explore complex problems by framing them as questions rather than statements, fostering curiosity and opening up diverse perspectives. This method encourages deeper inquiry and helps uncover hidden assumptions, leading to more innovative solutions.
When to use Design Questions
Use this method when a team is stuck defining a problem or needs to generate a wider range of potential solutions. It's particularly useful at the beginning of a project or when facing a complex, ambiguous challenge.
What it solves
Premature solutioning; narrow problem definition; lack of diverse perspectives.
How to run Design Questions, step by step
- Individually, each participant brainstorms questions related to the problem statement. (10 minutes)
- In small groups, share and cluster similar questions, identifying key themes. (20 minutes)
- As a whole group, discuss the themes and select 3-5 questions that best capture the essence of the problem. (20-30 minutes)
Materials needed
- Sticky notes
- Markers
- Whiteboard or virtual whiteboard (Miro, Mural)
- Timer
Facilitator tips
- Encourage participants to ask 'why' and 'what if' questions.
- Ensure that the selected questions are open-ended and invite exploration.
Common pitfalls
- Participants focusing on closed-ended questions. Guide them towards more open and exploratory inquiries.
- Groups getting stuck on a single question. Encourage them to generate a diverse range of questions.
Variations
- Use different question prompts (e.g., 'How might we...?', 'What would it look like if...?').
- Prioritize questions using a dot-voting system.
Running it online or hybrid
Use a shared document or whiteboard tool for collaborative question generation and discussion.
What it produces
A list of insightful and thought-provoking questions that reframe the problem.
Origin
Adapted from Stanford d.school — source
Build a session around Design Questions
METODIC places Design Questions inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.