Learn Phase
Concept
Modeling
This technique ensures you are collaboratively building actionable ideas rather than just capturing thoughts. We do this by driving iteration and going beyond words, bringing an idea to life through clay, plasticine, or any moldable material.
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When would you use Concept Modeling?
Concept Modeling is best used when a prioritized idea is being built out and developed into a conceptual product or service. Modeling is a great way to describe physical or social aspects of the idea in an abstract way.
Here’s where Concept Modeling can be a difference maker:
- You are struggling to move beyond words to represent an idea
- You want participants to be “hands on” in developing a concept
- You need to model or prototype a concept so that it doesn’t merely live on paper or computer
How does Concept Modeling work?
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1
Individually reflect and develop a "Mental Model" of how the idea works before you build something.
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2
Individually build a model of “how the idea works”
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3
One person assumes the role of facilitator. They will ask team members to explain their model.
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4
Facilitator will lead the team through each of the idea elements (by the number) and record the concept on the lean canvas template
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5
Test the concept out by having a team member “tell it as a story”.
Download the full Concept Modeling guide
Get access to instructions, templates, a case study, and more
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Deliberate Innovation Concept Modeling Tool Guide
Top Concept Modeling Tips
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Visualization: Allow your mind time imagine what the concept looks like, feels like
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“Don’t Have a Meeting With Yourself”: Allow your hands to build and you mind to wander to allow for creative development.
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“Modelling vs. Prototyping”: The goal of modelling is NOT to build a working prototype. Instead it is to provide a metaphor that helps to express the concept beyond words.
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Take Time on “How the Idea Works”, Really build it out and follow the numbered steps
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Who is it for: Keep checking back in to remind yourself that you’re building an idea for a customer/stakeholder person
More Concept Modeling Tips & Stories
Storytelling is at the heart of our teaching and is essential for understanding new concepts. Here are some short stories and tips to continue to bring this tool to life.
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