Scale modeling engages users hands-on with physical prototypes to provide direct feedback and improve concepts. It allows testing concepts quickly and inexpensively through tangible manifestations that can be played with and failed rapidly in a safe environment. Effective scale modeling uses quick, unfinished prototypes like LEGO builds to get feedback without users assuming it is final, and creates different versions to test undecided options before soliciting feedback on improvements through interaction with the prototypes.

1. SCALE MODELING
ENGAGEUSERSHANDS-ONFORFEEDBACK
ANDCONCEPTIMPROVEMENT
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2. WHEN NEEDED RATIONALE
SCALE MODELING
Forces to ‘think with both hands’ and
will release new creative juices
Gets a user/expert to engage with the
concept first-handedly to solicit direct
feedback
Allows for testing and failing rapidly
and cheaply in a safe and fun setting
I want to work
with my hands
I need a
tangible
manifestation
I want direct
feedback
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3. ESSENCE POINTERS
SCALE MODELING
Engage users
hands-on for
feedback
and concept
improvement
Build a quick & dirty ‘mash up’ using e.g.
LEGO
Avoid a ‘mash up’ that is too polished. Users
may assume it is the final version, blocking
feedback
Create different versions to parallel test
different options within the concept that
remain undecided
Let go of your prototype(s), physically and
mentally. Don’t defend it, invite users to
actively play with your creation
Solicit feedback and capture it on the 2x2
Feedback Capture Grid: plusses, minuses,
questions, ideasSource of Inspiration: IDEO method cards; Stanford d-school
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