Design Sprint Tutorial - How To Draw The Storyboard

Summary

In this video, the process of creating a storyboard for a design sprint is outlined step-by-step. The facilitator’s role is crucial in guiding the team while delegating tasks like drawing to maintain engagement. The storyboard exercise involves breaking down user test flows into detailed steps, reusing existing concepts, and filling in missing elements without introducing new ideas. Timeboxing and side tasks keep the team productive. This final activity allows the team to visualize the prototype's user journey, ensuring all details are captured before moving on to prototype creation.

Takeaways

• 😀 Storyboarding is one of the most challenging yet essential exercises in a design sprint.
• 😀 The storyboard helps translate user test flows into detailed visuals, guiding the creation of the prototype.
• 😀 Use post-it notes from the user test flow to create initial storyboard boxes, with extra space for flexibility.
• 😀 Reuse visual elements from previous concepts to save time and enhance team involvement, even if those concepts weren't chosen.
• 😀 Focus on translating high-level user flows into detailed steps, ensuring all details are captured for prototype development.
• 😀 Avoid introducing new ideas or features that aren’t part of the test, keeping the storyboard focused on what's been tested.
• 😀 Begin the storyboard by quickly sketching simple, familiar screens (like login or landing pages) to build momentum.
• 😀 Finish by focusing on the last steps of the user journey, such as completing a purchase or sharing an experience, to solidify the flow.
• 😀 Timebox the storyboard creation process to keep the team moving efficiently and maintain focus throughout the activity.
• 😀 Delegate tasks like writing copy or managing debates to keep everyone engaged and avoid distractions during the storyboard creation.
• 😀 As a facilitator, consider using a second person to draw the storyboard while you focus on moderating and guiding the group.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the storyboard in the design sprint process?

The main purpose of the storyboard is to map out the user flow and ensure that all details are covered before moving on to prototyping. It helps clarify the user journey and prevents open questions during prototype creation.

Why is it suggested to have a second person draw the storyboard during a design sprint?

Having a second person draw the storyboard allows the facilitator to focus on moderating the group and guiding the discussion, rather than being distracted by the drawing itself. It also helps keep the team engaged.

What are the two main parts of the storyboard exercise?

The storyboard exercise is broken into two parts: Part 1 involves drawing eight boxes on the whiteboard and placing the user test flow post-it notes inside them, while Part 2 focuses on filling in the missing pieces by drawing or adapting existing content.

How can facilitators avoid unnecessary effort when creating the storyboard?

Facilitators can avoid unnecessary effort by reusing drawings from earlier concepts, even if they weren't part of the chosen solution. This saves time and effort in creating new visuals.

What should be avoided when adding detail to the storyboard?

New ideas or unnecessary elements should be avoided. For instance, if the login flow is not part of the test, it should not be included in the storyboard to prevent additional work for the prototypers.

How should the team approach the first and last boxes in the storyboard?

It's recommended to start with the first and last boxes, as they are often simpler. The first box might depict an entry point like a Google search, and the last box could show the final user action, such as confirming a purchase.

What are 'key screens' in a storyboard?

Key screens are the critical steps in the user journey that showcase the product's main functionality. These screens might require more detailed work, such as the marketing page or checkout page.

What role does timeboxing play in the storyboard process?

Timeboxing ensures that the team stays focused and efficient during the storyboard creation. It helps avoid getting bogged down in perfectionism and keeps the momentum going throughout the process.

What strategies can help keep the team engaged during the storyboard activity?

To maintain engagement, facilitators can give participants side tasks, like working on specific screens or researching copy for the marketing page. This prevents distractions and keeps everyone actively involved.

What is the benefit of delegating drawing tasks to someone in the team?

Delegating the drawing tasks to a team member who enjoys drawing allows the facilitator to stay focused on the group, monitor engagement, and manage side tasks, improving overall efficiency.