Design Focused
User Persona Speed Dating
This is a rapid-fire networking exercise. Participants embody different user personas. They have quick conversations to understand diverse user perspectives. By stepping into users' shoes, teams develop empathy. They recognize the range of experiences designs must serve. This activity energizes teams. It builds a shared foundation of user understanding.
Duration
15 mins
Group Size
8-20
Category
Design Focused
Energy
High
Objectives
• Practice empathy for different user types • Understand diverse user needs and motivations • Build shared understanding of target audiences • Develop persona-driven thinking
Outcomes
Expect enhanced empathy for users. Participants gain a deeper understanding of persona diversity. User-centered thinking improves. Teams develop a shared vocabulary around user needs. Team engagement and participation increase. Participants will have concrete examples of shared values.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Facilitator Tips
Provide clear persona backgrounds. Keep rotations moving. Encourage participants to stay in character. Debrief insights about user diversity.
Variations
Stakeholder speed dating
What Changes: Reduce activity duration to 9 minutes.
Why Use It: This is perfect for time-constrained sessions. Use it when you need a quick energizer. The time pressure adds urgency.
Pre-Session Briefing
Analytics
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