Defining the initial question is a central element in idea generation and, of course, especially in Design Thinking.
If the assignments or questions are set too focused, it narrows the team too much right at the beginning of the creative process. This makes the famous “thinking outside the box” very difficult.
Of course, a search space that is too broad or a target that is too diffuse is also problematic. So, to prevent teams from limiting or losing themselves right at the beginning of the ideation process, the following method helps.
The frame parameters are:
– Do not prescribe a solution: The client should not specify a solution (solution request), the team should find the solutions.
– Inspiration and emotion: An inspiring question also increases the emotional connection to the topic.
– Provide a direction: Provide direction, not solution. This can be derived from a corporate strategy, for example.
– Asking the right questions: By creating and using a small question template, one supports purposeful discussion and derivation of initial questions.