A co-creation session is a collaborative tool that invites customers or end users to actively contribute to the development of an idea, solution or product.
This ensures that the solution aligns with the needs and desires of those who will ultimately be using the product or service. Its intent is bringing the people who interact or will interact with an experience into the center of the design process.
Co-creation sessions are most effective during early stages of an idea before decisions have been made or if there’s room for change within an existing process or service.
Best Practices
Create a safe and inclusive environment. Participants must feel safe to share. Start with ground rules and use icebreakers to help participants relax and engage.
Focus on collaboration, not perfection. Remind participants that the goal is to co-create, not finalize. Encourage divergent thinking and exploration of ideas.
Limit session time. Most co-creation sessions work best in 2–3 hour chunks. Allow for breaks!
Basic Steps
1. Define your purpose. What are you trying to solve or build? Who are the key interest holders? Set the scope early and determine the best tool(s) to use during the session.
2. Select participants. Include a diverse group for different ideas. This could include internal team members, customers, interest holders, partners, etc.
3. Plan the session. Choose a format (in-person, hybrid or virtual) and prepare the tools needed (e.g., whiteboards, sticky notes, drawing tools, collaboration tools such as Miro, Mural, or Zoom).
4. Facilitate structured activities. It’s always great to start with an icebreaker and context setting. Use creative exercises or tools (see other tools within this toolkit!) to get the information you need. Encourage participation from all attendees.
5. Document everything. Assign a notetaker to capture notes, visuals, quotes, and key takeaways so the facilitator can focus on facilitating. Take pictures of participants in action if approved.
6. Plan for next steps. Share a summary of the session with participants and work with your team to prioritize ideas and determine next steps and/or experiments.
Benefits
- Combines multiple perspectives for more innovative solutions
- Builds consensus and shared ownership
- Increases engagement and allows participants to feel seen and heard
Our Recommended Resources
Use co-creation sessions when you’re looking to gather real-time feedback from your team, customers or stakeholders to design a new product or service, solve a complex problem or challenge, or understand the customer’s journey and experience.