So, it’s time for another video challenge - we promise this is the last one! For this challenge, we are keen to see how clearly and succinctly you can explain one of our idea generation tools - Assumption Crusher.
After you have read the description of Assumption Crusher below, please make a video of yourself explaining Assumption Crusher to someone who is not familiar with the concept. Like the previous video, we don’t care about quality, we just care about watching you and seeing how well you can explain a concept.
We look forward to seeing your video! Please send it back to us within 48 hours.
**ASSUMPTION CRUSHER**
What is it?
An idea generation tool.
How to use it
1. Clearly articulate the challenge you want to solve.
2. Generate a list of assumptions that you hold around the given challenge. It can be helpful to consult with a couple of other people to draw out key assumptions (because assumptions by their very nature sit at the back of our minds). Assumptions can be both real (e.g. Our budget is $X) or perceived (e.g. Our staff aren’t engaged). Relevant assumptions may be about why it is a challenge, how it became a challenge, and assumptions around what may be the best ways to solve it.
3. Crush each of these assumptions. You can do this by asking: what if the opposite was true or what if something very different was true.
4. Use the crushed assumption as a springboard to generate new ideas from.
Why use it?
Whenever we have a problem to solve, we will have a set of assumptions that govern our thinking. Assumptions fence in our thinking and limit our ability to think creatively. By crushing these assumptions we are allowing peoples’ thinking to venture into new spaces/realities, increasing the possibility of breakthrough idea generation.
When to use it?
Use during ideation sessions, particularly when you believe participants are very ‘close’ to the challenge you are trying to solve (because if they are, they are likely to hold many assumptions which fence in their thinking). Assumption Crusher can also be used on an individual basis during idea generation and problem solving.
An example
Challenge: improve the experience of buying a pair of jeans.
Assumption: I always have to take in 5+ pairs of jeans just to find the right size because sizing differs to much between brands.
Crushed assumption: What if I only had to try on one pair of jeans because I know the sizing will be just right?
Idea: A body scanning mobile app that scans your body and takes measurements, and recommends a pair of jeans that will fit you perfectly.
