Design Thinking

Empathy To Problem Framing

This workshop builds empathy and frames problem statements. Participants develop personas. They experience empathy exercises. They learn problem reframing. The goal? Understand users before defining solutions. This human-centered approach addresses real needs, not assumptions.

Facilitation Script
Duration
4 days
Group Size
6-12
Category
Design Thinking
Format
In-person

  • Create research-based personas to guide design.

  • Experience user perspectives through immersion.

  • Develop deep empathy.

  • Master problem reframing.

  • Generate inspiring problem statements.

This workshop drives better team alignment and communication. Participants gain hands-on experience with design methods. They leave with practical tools for future use. Expect actionable outputs ready for immediate use. I've found the shared understanding is invaluable.
9:00am-9:10am
BREAK 10 min
Welcome & Introductions

Facilitator introduction

9:10am-9:20am
Hyper Island 10 min
Check-in/Check-out

Start and end sessions mindfully with brief personal sharing. Check-ins help people arrive mentally and emotionally; che...

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9:20am-10:00am
Luma 40 min
Persona Profile

Part of LUMA collection. ---People make design decisions based on assumptions. That's a problem. Personas help you desi...

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10:00am-10:15am
BREAK 15 min
Coffee Break

Refreshments

10:15am-10:55am
Research 40 min
Empathy Interviews

Deep understanding of user needs through one-on-one conversations. Focus on stories not opinions, ask "why" to go deeper...

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10:55am-11:30am
Strategy 35 min
Empathy Mapping

An empathy map is a collaborative visualization tool used to gain deeper insight into customers. It helps teams develop ...

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11:30am-11:55am
Research 25 min
Point of View Statement

Define problem from user perspective using structured format. Create actionable problem statement based on real user res...

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11:55am-12:30pm
Strategy 35 min
Problem Framing

Most teams jump to solutions before they understand the problem. Problem framing slows you down on purpose—making sure...

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12:30pm-12:40pm
BREAK 10 min
Workshop Wrap-up

Problem statements review

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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

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


  • Persona templates, research data, photo stock, markers.

  • Simulation materials, accessibility tools, scenario cards for immersion.

  • Problem statement starter cards, reframing templates.

  • Sticky notes, whiteboards, flip charts.

  • Presentation screen, timer, cameras for documentation.

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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