Working mechanisms
What
Working mechanisms are the functions a solution must meet in order to achieve the intended goal.
Why
A solution is only a ‘format’ (the ‘what’) for fulfilling specific functions (the ‘how’) with which the intended goal (the ‘value’) can be met. Sometimes the ‘what’ cannot be created or implemented just like that, making it hard to test. In such cases it can be helpful to see if there is an alternative way to test the ‘how’.
How
- For this exercise, use the accompanying template, print it or copy it onto an A3 sheet, flip chart or whiteboard.
- Consider the working mechanisms of your solution. Which functions must the solution meet to achieve the intended goal?
- Select the most important function to be tested. Which function, or which working mechanism, makes the solution successful?
- Formulate a hypothesis for the selected mechanism.
- Brainstorm ways of testing the hypothesis in a ‘quick and dirty’ way. This could involve using one of the other tools in the category of ‘Assessing’ (Wizard of Oz, role-playing, et cetera). Or maybe you can think of another format?
- Define indicators. What should you pay attention to when testing the hypothesis?
Formulate a plan. How will you carry out the assessment? What is the setup or context, what do you need and when will you carry it out?