diverge · Problem Solving, Ideation, Team Building · 20–30 min · 5-40 people · medium energy

Improv Prototyping

Improv Prototyping allows teams to playfully experiment with solutions to persistent challenges by acting out scenarios and iteratively refining them based on observation and feedback. This method fosters creativity, collaboration, and rapid learning through embodied experience.

When to use Improv Prototyping

Use this method when a team is stuck on a complex problem, needs to break through resistance to change, or wants to generate innovative solutions in a fun and engaging way.

What it solves

Resistance to change, lack of creative ideas, difficulty breaking down complex problems, unproductive training sessions.

How to run Improv Prototyping, step by step

  1. Explain the process and sequence of steps to the group. (2 min)
  2. Set the stage by describing the scenario to be acted out and assigning roles. (3 min)
  3. Players enact the scene on stage. (3-5 min)
  4. Observer groups debrief using 1-2-4-All to identify successful and unsuccessful 'chunks' from the scene. (5 min)
  5. Each observer group pieces together successful chunks into a new prototype and rehearses it within their group. (5 min)
  6. Volunteer groups enact their improved prototype on the main stage. (3-5 min)
  7. Continue rounds until a satisfactory prototype emerges.

Materials needed

  • Open space or stage area
  • Props (optional)
  • Chairs for small groups
  • Timer

Facilitator tips

  • Encourage participants to fully embody their roles and embrace the playful nature of the activity.
  • Consider assigning roles like stage manager, creative director, and facilitator to support the process.
  • Draw themes and dramatic lines from previous activities like Discovery & Action Dialogues or Simple Ethnography.

Common pitfalls

  • Participants feeling self-conscious or hesitant to participate. Create a safe and supportive environment by emphasizing the 'yes, and...' principle of improv.
  • Scenes that lack focus or fail to generate new ideas. Gently redirect the players and encourage them to explore different approaches.

Variations

  • Invite the audience to replay scenes in small groups to discover better (and worse) actions.
  • Organize face-off competitions between small groups, judged by an 'applause-o-meter'.
  • Link with Design StoryBoards, Shift & Share, and User Experience Fishbowl to disseminate innovations.

Running it online or hybrid

Use breakout rooms for small group rehearsals and a virtual whiteboard for capturing successful 'chunks'. Ensure clear audio for the main stage performances.

What it produces

A series of prototyped solutions, a shared understanding of effective and ineffective behaviors, and a set of actionable steps for addressing the challenge.

Origin

Liberating Structure developed by Henri Lipmanowicz and Keith McCandless. Inspired by Antonas Mockus and Improv artists. — source

Build a session around Improv Prototyping

METODIC places Improv Prototyping inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.

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