Check out the episode guide.
In the develop phase of the double diamond, ideas finally take flight. This episode shares the simple conditions that unlock creativity, the 7 rules of brainstorming, and fast methods like brainwriting, Crazy Eights, Newsflash, and Lotus Blossom. We finish by shortlisting ideas using dot voting and the desirability–feasibility–viability lens so you know what to prototype next.
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Resources Mentioned
Design Kit – methods library (filter by ideation)
Timestamps
0:02 – Introduction
Welcome back to Idea Work. Michael sets up today’s focus on the Develop phase and moving from a clear HMW question to creative solutions.
0:41 – Enter the Develop phase
Recaps the journey so far and positions ideation as the next step after defining a focused problem.
1:00 – Pivoting the problem holder
Explains why the HMW targets university staff marketing health services, not students, based on research insights.
1:52 – Setting the scene for creativity
Make ideas visible, avoid boardroom-style critique, and create psychological safety so everyone can contribute.
4:14 – Seven rules of brainstorming
Defer judgement, encourage wild ideas, build on others, stay on topic, one conversation at a time, be visual, and go for quantity.
8:11 – Rapid ideation methods
Brainwriting for volume, Newsflash for quick visuals, Crazy Eights to sketch variations, and Lotus Blossom to expand promising concepts.
14:07 – Evaluate and select ideas
Use dot voting to spot energy, then map options with desirability, feasibility, and viability to find strong candidates.
16:22 – Example direction: social events
A low-stakes on-campus events concept helps students meet clinic staff, build trust, and learn what services exist.
17:47 – What’s next: Deliver and MVP
Outline the next phase of testing, iterating, and shaping a minimum viable product to validate the chosen idea.
18:27–18:39 – Wrap up and sign off
Brief recap and invitation to continue into the Deliver phase.
Michael Walter is an educator, writer, academic, founder, improviser, and musician. He explores the intersections of creativity, technology, innovation, and social justice, always with a deep curiosity about how humans grow and connect.