Luma

Persona Profile

People often make design decisions based on assumptions. That's a problem. Personas help you design for real people instead of imaginary ones. Turn research into realistic profiles of typical users. Personas aren't stereotypes. They're based on data. When you give findings a face and a story, your team remembers who they're designing for.

Duration
2 hours
Group Size
3-5
Category
Luma
Difficulty
Easy
Participants will:

  • Put people at the center of design decisions.

  • Build empathy for users.

  • Turn research data into memorable profiles.

  • Challenge assumptions.

  • Guide design choices.

  • Keep the team focused on real users.

Participants will produce:

  • Detailed persona profiles representing users.

  • Shared understanding of target users.

  • Foundation for user-centered decisions.


  • Avoid stereotypes.

  • Use visuals to support the text.

  • Keep personas based on real data.

  • Make them feel like real people. It can be tricky to avoid stereotypes, so be mindful of this during the exercise.


  1. Gather research data.

  2. Find patterns; look for user types.

  3. Write a description for each type.

  4. Give them realistic names.

  5. Find or create a photo for each.

  6. List what makes them unique.

  7. Write down their needs and goals.

  8. Add a quote that captures their mindset.

  9. Create a one-page summary for each.

Unlock Step-by-Step Instructions

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For Facilitators

  • Review participant profiles and expectations
  • Prepare all materials and supplies
  • Test technology and room setup

For Participants

  • Complete pre-session survey
  • Review background materials
  • Prepare examples or case studies

Unlock Pre-Work Requirements

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  • Research data

  • Computer or poster supplies

  • Photos or illustrations

  • Persona templates

Unlock Materials Required

Create a free account to access step-by-step instructions, agendas, and resources for all activities.

  • Facilitator Guide (PDF)
  • Participant Workbook Template
  • Presentation Slides
  • Printable Materials

Unlock Resources & Templates

Create a free account to access step-by-step instructions, agendas, and resources for all activities.

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