diverge · Planning, Prototyping · 45–90 min · 3-8 people · medium energy

Rapid Prototyping Planner

The Rapid Prototyping Planner helps teams intentionally plan prototyping efforts by identifying underlying assumptions and designing specific tests to validate them. This framework ensures that prototypes serve the goals of the testing phase, rather than being created without a clear purpose.

When to use Rapid Prototyping Planner

Use this method when you need to ensure that your prototyping efforts are focused and effective. It's especially useful when dealing with complex concepts that rely on several assumptions.

What it solves

Creating prototypes that don't provide meaningful insights, wasting time on prototypes that don't address key assumptions, lack of clarity on what to test during prototyping.

How to run Rapid Prototyping Planner, step by step

  1. For each concept, identify the underlying assumptions that need to be validated. (15 minutes)
  2. For each assumption, determine the appropriate conditions to test it. (20 minutes)
  3. Plan the specific activities or prototypes needed to test each assumption. (30 minutes)
  4. Define the success metrics that will indicate whether the assumption is valid. (15 minutes)
  5. Document the plan in a structured format (e.g., a table or spreadsheet). (10 minutes)

Materials needed

  • Rapid Prototyping Planner template (table or spreadsheet)
  • Pens and paper or digital document
  • Whiteboard or flip chart

Facilitator tips

  • Encourage the team to be specific and realistic about the assumptions being tested.
  • Ensure that the testing conditions are relevant and representative of the real-world context.
  • Focus on defining clear and measurable success metrics.

Common pitfalls

  • Failing to identify all relevant assumptions. Encourage the team to brainstorm and challenge each other's thinking.
  • Designing tests that are not aligned with the assumptions. Ensure that the testing conditions directly address the assumptions being tested.
  • Not defining clear success metrics. Make sure the team knows what evidence will be needed to validate each assumption.

Variations

  • Use different formats for the planner, such as a mind map or a visual canvas.
  • Involve stakeholders in the planning process to gain their input and buy-in.
  • Prioritize assumptions based on their importance and level of uncertainty.

Running it online or hybrid

Use a shared digital document or whiteboard to collaboratively fill out the Rapid Prototyping Planner. Breakout rooms can facilitate smaller group discussions.

What it produces

A completed Rapid Prototyping Planner, outlining assumptions, testing conditions, and success metrics for each concept.

Origin

Based on work by YLabs — source

Build a session around Rapid Prototyping Planner

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

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