Check out the episode guide.
We’ve reached deliver in the double diamond. In this episode I share how to align with your client, build rough prototypes, test without leading, iterate with intent, and package the work with roadmaps and stakeholder maps.
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Resources Mentioned
Wizard of Oz prototyping (what it is and when to use it)
Service blueprints (visualising frontstage and backstage)
Journey maps (mapping experience across time)
Wireframes (low‑fidelity UI sketches)
Eventbrite (quick demand testing for events)
Business Model Canvas (Strategyzer)
Timestamps
0:02 – Introduction
Michael welcomes listeners to the Deliver phase, recapping the journey from problem discovery through to ideation.
0:40 – Deliver phase overview and client check-in
Select 2–3 promising ideas, share them with the client, gather feedback, and align on which concept to take forward based on time and budget.
3:06 – Prototyping mindset: converge and keep it rough
Move from broad options to a focused solution. Build low-fidelity prototypes that invite critique rather than praise, including simple wireframes or Wizard-of-Oz clickthroughs.
5:20 – Prototyping across contexts
Use service blueprints, role plays and storyboards for services; cardboard mock-ups for products (IDEO-style); and low-cost event tests such as a basic Eventbrite listing or a mock invitation.
8:02 – Testing with people: show, don’t tell
Put the prototype in users’ hands, ask them to think aloud, and avoid leading questions. Michael shares a failed video prototype and the lesson to make feedback targets and artefacts tangible.
12:30 – Iterate and package
Synthesise feedback (affinity map what you hear), prioritise changes, run 2–3 cycles, then assemble clear artefacts: summaries, visuals, walkthroughs and ready-to-use assets.
13:38 – Implementation and handover
Provide a practical roadmap (now/next/later), stakeholder and influence maps, suggested engagement tactics (e.g. student committee), and a business model canvas, plus notes on other ideas for future phases.
15:13 – Design is a loop
Delivery often starts the next round of discovery and learning. The process is non-linear, evolving with every project.
16:22–16:34 – Wrap up and sign off
Thanks to listeners and an invitation to subscribe and continue exploring design thinking in practice.
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.