Strategy

Design Vision

A design vision defines success before building. It's not a mood board, but a 'north star.' This exercise clarifies the visual and experiential direction. Without it, teams make disjointed decisions.

Duration
2 hours
Group Size
4-8
Category
Strategy
Difficulty
Easy
Energy
Medium

Objectives


  • Create a clear future state for your product.

  • Align the team on design goals.

  • Generate artifacts to guide decisions.

  • Identify disagreements early.

Outcomes


  • A vision document to rally the team.

  • Clear criteria for evaluating design choices.

  • Agreement on the future of the product.

Step-by-Step Instructions


  1. Context Setting (10 minutes): Briefly explain constraints: timeline, resources, technical limits, business needs. Share relevant user research.

  2. Individual Vision Sketches (20 minutes): Each person sketches their ideal future state. Focus on concepts, not wireframes. Capture the feeling and key element. Ugly sketches are fine.

  3. Gallery Walk (15 minutes): Post sketches. Walk around silently. Use dots to mark appealing elements. Use sticky notes for questions.

  4. Synthesis Discussion (30 minutes): Discuss emerging themes, common elements, and conflicts. Clarity is the goal, not consensus.

  5. Vision Statement Draft (15 minutes): Write a 2-3 sentence vision statement. It should guide decisions and inspire. Test: Does it help you say no?

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Facilitator Tips

Vision vs. First Release: Encourage thinking beyond the next quarter. Imagine 3 years out. Then, work backward.
The Feature Trap: Focus on outcomes, not features. 'Users feel in control' is better than 'Users can filter.' Keep asking 'why?'
Conflict Is Productive: Immediate agreement might indicate a vague vision. Look for tension. Conflicting visions reveal key decisions.
Making It Sticky: A vision document must be visible. Print it large or reference it in design reviews. Plan for ongoing visibility. Sometimes, despite our best efforts, the vision fades. Be ready to revive it.

Pre-Work

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

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Materials Required


  • Large paper or sketchbooks

  • Markers, pens, pencils

  • Wall space

  • Dot stickers

  • Sticky notes

  • Camera

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Resources & Templates

Discussion

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