Ideation · beginner · 45 min
The Problem-Solution Dash
A fast-paced, condensed version of a Design Sprint that moves a team from a broad problem to prioritized solutions in under an hour. This method utilizes the 'Note-and-Vote' principle to eliminate endless circular discussions and ensures that every voice is heard. It is perfect for kicking off a project, getting unstuck, or demonstrating the power of Design Thinking to a new team.
What participants gain
- Understanding the diverge-converge rhythm of Design Sprints
- Ability to reframe negative problems into positive opportunities using 'How Might We'
- Experience in rapid, silent decision-making techniques
- Skills in prioritizing solutions based on group consensus
Materials needed
- Yellow sticky notes
- Green sticky notes
- Sharpies or thick black markers
- Small red voting dots (stickers)
- Time timer or digital stopwatch
- Whiteboard or large wall space
How to run The Problem-Solution Dash, step by step
- Introduce the session goal and the 'Work Together, Alone' principle, explaining that discussion is banned during writing phases
- Ask participants to spend 7 minutes writing down problems, obstacles, or risks related to the project goal on yellow sticky notes, one idea per note
- Have participants stick their notes on the wall and quickly group similar themes together without discussion
- Give each participant 3 voting dots and allow 3 minutes for them to vote on the most critical problem to solve right now
- Take the top-voted problem and rewrite it as a 'How Might We' (HMW) question on the whiteboard to frame it as an opportunity
- Ask participants to spend 7 minutes brainstorming solutions to the HMW question on green sticky notes, aiming for quantity over quality
- Conduct a final voting round where participants select the solution they believe has the highest impact and lowest effort
- Arrange the top solutions on an Impact/Effort matrix (optional) or simply list the top 3 as immediate action items
Facilitator tips
- Use a visible timer for every step to create a sense of urgency and focus
- Play upbeat instrumental music during the silent writing phases to boost energy
- Enforce the 'Work Together, Alone' rule strictly to prevent groupthink
- Don't let the group get bogged down in grouping duplicates; do it yourself if necessary to save time
Common challenges
- Participants wanting to discuss every sticky note instead of moving quickly
- Writing vague or broad challenges that are difficult to solve in a sprint
- Dominant voices trying to influence the voting process
Running it virtually
Use a digital whiteboard tool like Miro or Mural. Utilize the 'Private Mode' feature during writing steps to ensure anonymity and independent thinking. Use the built-in voting timer and voting session features to manage the strict timeboxing.
Expected results
A defined core challenge, a clear 'How Might We' statement, and a prioritized list of actionable solutions ready for prototyping or assignment.
Build a session around The Problem-Solution Dash
METODIC drops The Problem-Solution Dash into a complete session plan with timing, materials, worksheets, and a facilitator guide — for any workshop, meeting, or team session.