Service Design Tools

Signal Cards

Use provocative cards depicting future situations to spark new service ideas. The cards help you think about emerging trends and alternative futures. They're great for pushing beyond typical ideation.

Duration
2 hours
Group Size
4-8
Category
Service Design Tools
Difficulty
Easy
Participants will:

  • Ideate around new service scenarios.

  • Consider alternative futures.

  • Push creative conversation.

  • Consider emerging trends.

  • Generate unexpected service ideas.

  • Think about short and long-term scenarios.

  • Turn signals into design inspiration.

You'll get signal cards, documented weak signals, and a foundation for foresight.

  • Build cards with simple, clear narratives.

  • Make trends concrete through specific examples.

  • Balance provocation with believability. Too far either way and it won't work.

  • Include both technology and social trends.

  • Test cards before important sessions.

  • Update cards regularly with new signals.

  • Use with other ideation methods.

  • Focus on implications for human behavior.


  1. Research key trends relevant to your context.

  2. Look for emerging behaviors.

  3. Consider the consequences if the existing model continues.

  4. Compile a list of relevant weak signals.

  5. Create cards with simple narratives.

  6. Phrase big trends as future facts or anecdotes.

  7. Make cards provocative, but believable. It's a balance!

  8. Test cards in ideation sessions.

  9. Use cards to prompt scenario generation.

  10. Generate service ideas inspired by signals.

  11. Develop near-term and long-term concepts.

  12. Document insights and new directions.

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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  • Card design and printing materials.

  • Research on trends and signals.

  • Simple narrative templates.

  • Lamination (for durability).

  • Storage/organization.

  • Ideation session materials.

  • Documentation tools.

  • Timer.

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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