Design Challenge

Empathy-Based Design in Action

Challenge: Create a solution (i.e. build a prototype) to solve an actual problem you or your team have. The problem you'd like to address might be one from work or home life. See below for examples of solutions from previous workshops.

NOTE: If you'd rather build something whimsical then you are hereby granted permission to do so.

Work Group: You decide if you want to work solo or in a group. The group can be any size but everyone must be engaged in the build.

Time Allotment: 60 minutes. Countdown Timer is HERE.

Building / Prototyping Supplies: The facilitator will point out the supplies available to you.

Do not waste supplies!

Required Sketch of Your Idea: Before you start building you must sketch your idea out on paper and discuss it with your team. You are more likely to have success when you invest wisely in the planning phase.

"Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe."

~ Abraham Lincoln

Demo or Die: At the end of 60 minutes you and/or your team will deliver a demonstration of your working prototype to the entire group. During the demonstration everyone else in the workshop will move to your "area" so as to get a better view of your prototype and presentation.

Directions for "Demo or Die" are HERE.

Sample Projects built by previous workshop participants: