OpenIDEO - OpenIDEO Team Notes - Inspiration Phase: The Low Down

Field Notes

Inspiring content from across OpenIDEO & IDEO's other work.

Nov 7th 2011
Inspiration Phase: The Low Down

We're sometimes asked at OpenIDEO why we run the Inspiration phase first and don't just dive straight into the Concepting phase to start generating ideas. So we thought we'd share some reasons on why we've found the Inspiration approach to be successful in shaping our pursuit of social good.

Explore before innovating

By exploring existing initiatives, tools, campaigns, methods, business models and so on which have been applied to a challenge, we gain collective understanding on the scope of the topic. It's easy to rush in and start proposing concepts without taking the time to discuss and understand the issues. Through exploring widely and collaboratively we gain diverse perspectives – which are more likely to lead to truly innovative and impactful solutions.

Turning observation into insight

As we explore, many of us unearth gems which will trigger thoughts on the challenge topic from others. To engage others in conversation, it's great idea to unpack your Inspiration for the community. Something's caught your eye – rather than just posting a link or video – see if you can turn that observation into an insight. Let the community know why you think it matters, how you think relates to our challenge and share relevant details to spark discussion. Asking broad questions which may trigger widening discussions about your insight helps too – collaboration loves a conversation!

Feed the idea & let it grow

Ok – so we know that sometimes an idea strikes you that just seems to fit the challenge perfectly and it's tempting to go ahead and post it in the Inspiration phase before the Concepting phase opens. In this case, our suggestion is for you to jot down your thoughts and park them for now. What could make your idea even better is if you think about what existing Inspirations might start conversations which could feed your idea and improve it in the long run. So, for example, if you're planning on suggesting a Concept for a mission to the moon, you might like to post Inspirations on long distance travel and confined spaces to gain further insight. Your concealed idea will strengthen in the process and may even evolve in a whole exciting new tangent by the time we open the Concepting phase – it's about having trust in collaboration!

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Field Notes

Inspiring content from across OpenIDEO & IDEO's other work.

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Nov 7th 2011
Inspiration Phase: The Low Down

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Where people design better, together

Field Notes

Inspiring content from across OpenIDEO & IDEO's other work.

Recent blog entries

Nov 7th 2011 Inspiration Phase: The Low Down

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Nov 7th 2011
Inspiration Phase: The Low Down