Project Thinking Frameworks

To help your team stay organized and creative, using a project thinking framework can be incredibly beneficial. Here are two popular frameworks that teams can use during their Innovation Project:

1. Design Thinking

Design Thinking is a fun and iterative approach that helps teams understand and solve problems creatively.

Steps:

• Empathize: Understand the needs and challenges of the people affected by the problem. Talk to others, observe, and gather insights.
• Define: Clearly articulate the problem you want to solve based on your understanding.
• Ideate: Brainstorm a wide range of possible solutions without judging them.
• Prototype: Create simple models or representations of your ideas using LEGO bricks or other materials.
• Test: Try out your prototypes, collect feedback, and make improvements.

Why It Helps:

Design Thinking encourages creativity and keeps the user’s needs at the center of your project, leading to more effective and innovative solutions.

2. The Engineering Design Process

This framework is perfect for teams who love building and experimenting.

Steps:

• Ask: Identify the problem you want to solve. Ask questions to understand it better.
• Imagine: Think of different ways to solve the problem. Let your ideas flow!
• Plan: Choose the best idea and plan how to build it. Decide what materials you’ll need.
• Create: Build your solution using LEGO bricks or other materials. Have fun constructing!
• Improve: Test your creation and see how it can be better. Make changes and enhancements.

Why It Helps:

The Engineering Design Process provides a structured approach to problem-solving, ensuring that your solution is well-thought-out and effective.

Tips for Success

• Stay Organized: Keep track of your progress with schedules and checklists.
• Communicate: Maintain open lines of communication within your team.
• Be Persistent: Challenges may arise, but perseverance leads to success.
• Have Fun: Enjoy the creative process and celebrate your achievements together.

Conclusion

Navigating the Innovation Project from idea to presentation is a journey of creativity, collaboration, and learning. By following these steps and embracing project thinking frameworks like Design Thinking or the Engineering Design Process, your team can develop innovative solutions and present them with confidence. Remember, the skills you gain through this project extend beyond LEGO—preparing you for future challenges and opportunities. Stay organized, communicate openly, and most importantly, have fun throughout the journey. Happy innovating!