diverge · Strategy · 60–90 min · 3-10 people · medium energy
Impact Journey
The Impact Journey helps teams proactively assess the potential positive and negative impacts of a service across various dimensions like environment, society, and economy. By visualizing the user journey alongside potential impacts, teams can make more informed and sustainable design decisions.
When to use Impact Journey
Use this method early in the design process, particularly when you want to ensure your service aligns with sustainability goals and minimizes negative consequences on people and the planet.
What it solves
Unintended negative consequences of a service; Lack of consideration for long-term sustainability; Siloed thinking that overlooks broader impacts.
How to run Impact Journey, step by step
- Outline the service experience as a journey map, briefly describing each step. (15 minutes)
- Define the key impact areas to consider (e.g., Environment, Society, Economy). List these vertically to create a matrix below the journey map. (10 minutes)
- Systematically explore the matrix, asking for each journey step what positive or negative outcomes might affect the identified impact areas. Document these. (45 minutes)
- Discuss the filled Impact Journey to identify potential sustainability risks and long-term impacts. Brainstorm ways to mitigate negative consequences and enhance positive outcomes. (20 minutes)
Materials needed
- Large paper or whiteboard
- Markers or pens
- Sticky notes (optional)
- Timer
- Pre-printed Impact Journey template (optional)
- Miro or Mural board for remote sessions
Facilitator tips
- Encourage diverse perspectives when identifying impact areas and potential consequences.
- Focus on both positive and negative impacts to get a balanced view.
- Remind participants to consider long-term effects, not just immediate outcomes.
Common pitfalls
- Superficial analysis: Ensure participants dig deep and consider a wide range of potential impacts.
- Overly optimistic or pessimistic bias: Encourage a balanced and realistic assessment.
- Ignoring less obvious impacts: Prompt participants to think outside the box and consider indirect consequences.
Variations
- Use different impact categories based on the specific service and context.
- Involve external stakeholders to get a broader perspective.
- Prioritize impact areas based on their importance and potential severity.
Running it online or hybrid
Use a shared digital whiteboard like Miro or Mural to create and populate the journey map and impact matrix.
What it produces
A completed Impact Journey map showing the user journey steps and the positive and negative impacts on areas like environment, society, and economy.
Origin
Adapted from ServiceDesignTools.org — source
Build a session around Impact Journey
METODIC places Impact Journey inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.