The Dope.

Advice:

Think broad-scope, consider parallels and seek extremes.

The use of divergence is popular in design thinking as it allows for an expanded look into a problem or challenge. Here are a two ways to integrate divergence into a workflow to achieve meaningful results.

01. Seek out parallels
While assessments of direct competitors are necessary, they alone can provide too narrow a framework for innovation. Consider looking at non-related fields to identify, map and problem-solve similar challenges. This will open new avenues of understanding and to view and evaluate a challenge in creative ways.

Take the example of long-term elder care facilities. What might be learned and applied from researching resorts, B&Bs, universities, or yoga parlors? It may be revealed that going beyond general care to include parallels that focus on comfort, community, experiential environments and meditation can make for innovative and impactful results.

02. Iterate to the extreme

User personas and divergent thinking are both great for establishing a wide-ranging, yet intentional set of criteria—so why not combine them. Try creating a three-to-five step iterative framework that ranges from the minimum viable product (solution), to that which meets the needs of an extreme user. Assigning a persona to represent a divergent set of achievable goals, can provide an opportunity to evaluate what is necessary from what is extraneous.