Design Thinking Methods Catalogue

# Ideate

# Idea funnel

Purpose
Evaluate and select ideas
Time required
10 to 40 minutes
Participants
Design Thinking team
Level of experience
Beginner

# What is it about?

Using the metaphor of a funnel, ideas that have already been collected are selected and prioritized on the basis of self-chosen criteria.

# The goal

Sorting/prioritizing ideas according to defined criteria.

# How to do it?

  1. Draw a large funnel on a metaplan wall or flipchart.
  2. Collect criteria that an idea must fulfil in order to be pursued as a prototype.
  3. Decide on an order for the criteria and write them on the funnel from top to bottom
  4. Let the ideas ‘run through the funnel’ one by one and check each idea against the criteria.

# When do you need it?

In selecting the best ideas for the transition to the convergent phase and prototyping.

# Resources

  • sticky notes and pens
  • alternative: digital whiteboard

# Advantages

The idea funnel is an effective and efficient method for evaluating and prioritizing ideas. The structured approach enables a focussed discussion. In addition, the selection of ideas is comprehensible and transparent.

# Disadvantages

The selection of criteria plays a crucial role. These are subjective criteria that may filter out very innovative solutions.

# Keep in mind

The funnel is used to check ideas against criteria and reveal shortcomings. Allow discussions and discover potential for improvement or possible combinations.

# See also

Previous methods Alternative methods Following methods

# Sources

← Idea competition →