Walt Disney method
The Walt Disney method involves sequential thinking to analyze a problem, generate ideas, evaluate ideas, construct and critique a plan of action. The four thinking roles are – outsiders, dreamers, realizers, and critics.
Time Taken
20 mins
Level of Difficulty
Hard
Materials Needed
Post its, miro, props
Participants
Design Team
- Effectiveness 90%
Step by Step Instructions
#1
In the first role, the person thinks as an “outsider” to gain an analytical, external view of the challenge.
#2
In the second, they then act as “dreamers” to brainstorm ideal solutions. They use divergent thinking to conceive creative and radical ideas.
#3
In the third, they adopt a “realizer” viewpoint. They act as pragmatic realists and use convergent thinking to review the ideas left by the dreamers. They select the best idea and construct a plan for it.
#4
Finally, the fourth viewpoint is that of “critics”. They review the plan made by the realists in order to identify weaknesses, obstacles or risks. They seek to improve the plan.
#5
Repeat the exercise by exchanging the role with different people and gather more ideas
#6
Cluster the ideas and form themes. Use the themes to further ideate and enhance
How did I use it?
This tool came in handy for the research phase of my MA Strategic Design 2nd semester. The project was related to climate change and as a team(4 members) we were able to test our solution with experts, peers and project partner.
