I was unfortunately not in class last Thursday when we came up with problem statements. I can only blog about the process from afar and how I feel it transitioned into Tuesdays class.
Having a good understanding of our problem statement will guide our team efficiently into the ideation process. Right now, I feel, we do not have a firm understanding of the problem with are trying to solve. This is reflected in our problem statement. Going into class tomorrow and coming up with a second problem statement will help us diversify our options.
The process we went through in class was extremely helpful. Encouraging us to do the activities individually allowed for an increased quantity, range and diversity of innovative ideas. I was surprised how the “crazy” ideas actually could be made into something practical. For example, one of our “crazy” ideas was to force residents to partake in certain activities if they were physically able. An idea we generated off of that was to offer HOA discounts to those that either partake in 2 activities a month or lead groups.
This step has been the most difficult one for me this far. My biggest challenge was not coming up with a solution before identifying a problem statement. I had a set idea based off our interviews and observations and was focused on that. Trying to take a step back and separate myself from the idea in my head and simply focusing on problem statements proved to be very difficult for me.
The feedback our team received from you in our one on one meeting proved to be invaluable. We listened and conversed about your suggestions and were able to narrow our problem statement. We had lost our focus on housing, but are now grounded! We clarified our innovating concept and highlighted the city atmosphere.
This entire process is a new experience for me. I had never been taught these steps for innovative thinking. We are not even finished with the project and my thinking process has honestly transformed. I will never assess things the same way again!