Ideation · intermediate · 60 min

Inclusive Design Ideation

This method focuses on generating creative ideas for designing inclusive digital services that meet the needs of diverse populations, including people with disabilities, older adults, and individuals with varying levels of digital literacy. Participants will use brainstorming techniques and design thinking principles to come up with innovative solutions that promote equity and accessibility. This ensures that services are not only usable but also equitable for all citizens.

What participants gain

  • Participants will be able to generate creative ideas for designing inclusive digital services.
  • Participants will be able to apply inclusive design principles to ideation.
  • Participants will be able to evaluate and prioritize ideas based on their potential for promoting equity and accessibility.
  • Participants will be able to develop an action plan for implementing inclusive design solutions.

Materials needed

  • Whiteboard or flip chart.
  • Markers or pens.
  • Sticky notes.
  • Paper for sketching.
  • Timer.

How to run Inclusive Design Ideation, step by step

  1. Introduction (5 min): Explain the purpose of inclusive design ideation and its benefits for creating equitable services.
  2. Inspiration (10 min): Share examples of inclusive design solutions to inspire participants.
  3. Brainstorming (20 min): Participants brainstorm ideas for designing inclusive digital services, focusing on specific user needs and challenges.
  4. Sketching (15 min): Participants sketch out their ideas on paper.
  5. Sharing (10 min): Participants share their ideas with the larger group.
  6. Action (5 min): Assign owners to address findings.
  7. Check (2 min): Confirm who is doing what by when.
  8. Connect (2 min): Summarize findings and transition to next activity.

Facilitator tips

  • Set the stage by emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and equity.
  • Provide examples of inclusive design solutions to inspire participants.
  • Encourage participants to think outside the box and challenge assumptions.
  • Use a variety of ideation techniques, such as brainstorming, sketching, and storyboarding.
  • Create a safe and supportive environment for sharing ideas.

Common challenges

  • Lack of diverse perspectives: Ensure that the group includes participants with diverse backgrounds and experiences.
  • Dominance by certain participants: Use techniques like round-robin brainstorming to ensure equal participation.
  • Focusing on incremental improvements rather than radical innovation: Encourage participants to challenge the status quo and think outside the box.
  • Lack of follow-through on ideas: Develop an action plan to evaluate and implement the most promising ideas.

Running it virtually

Use a collaborative online whiteboard tool like Miro or Mural to facilitate brainstorming and idea generation. Use virtual sticky notes and breakout rooms to encourage participation from all participants.

Expected results

A collection of creative ideas for designing inclusive digital services. Increased awareness and understanding of inclusive design principles among participants.

Build a session around Inclusive Design Ideation

METODIC drops Inclusive Design Ideation into a complete session plan with timing, materials, worksheets, and a facilitator guide — for any workshop, meeting, or team session.

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