explore · Ideation, Communication · 15–30 min · 1-10 people · low energy
Draw It
The Draw It method uses visual representation to unlock deeper insights and facilitate communication with individuals you are designing for. By encouraging participants to express themselves through drawing, you can bypass language barriers and gain a richer understanding of their experiences and perspectives.
When to use Draw It
Use this method when you need to understand a user's experience, process, or environment in a more nuanced way, especially when language might be a barrier or when you want to encourage a different form of expression.
What it solves
Difficulty articulating complex experiences verbally; lack of engagement in traditional interview formats.
How to run Draw It, step by step
- Prepare materials: Ensure you have pens and paper readily available. (2 minutes)
- Explain the task: Clearly articulate what you want the person to draw, providing specific context and examples. (3 minutes)
- Encourage participation: Address any potential anxieties about drawing ability and offer to draw alongside them to create a safe space. (5 minutes)
- Investigate the drawing: Use the drawing as a conversation starter, asking questions to understand the details and meaning behind the visual representation. (15 minutes)
Materials needed
- Pens
- Paper or Notebook
- Optional: Colored pencils or markers
Facilitator tips
- Emphasize that artistic skill is not important; the goal is communication.
- Be prepared to draw yourself to model the activity and alleviate participant anxiety.
Common pitfalls
- Participant feeling intimidated or inadequate: Reassure them that it's about expressing ideas, not creating art.
- Drawing becoming too abstract or unclear: Gently guide the participant with clarifying questions.
Variations
- Collaborative Drawing: The facilitator and participant draw together to co-create a visual representation.
- Annotated Drawing: The participant draws a basic outline, and then adds labels and notes to explain the details.
Running it online or hybrid
Participants can draw on paper and share via camera, or use digital drawing tools on a shared whiteboard.
What it produces
Sketches, diagrams, or visual representations created by the participant or facilitator.
Origin
Adapted from IDEO Design Kit — source
Build a session around Draw It
METODIC places Draw It inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.