How Might We
The possibilities are endless
Asking the right question makes all the difference.
In the realm of problem-solving and innovation, the “How Might We” (HMW) approach stands as a powerful tool for reframing challenges and unlocking creative solutions. Originating from the Design Thinking methodology, HMW questions are deliberately open-ended, inviting exploration and ideation. They prompt us to approach problems with a curious mindset, setting aside preconceived solutions and embracing the possibility of new ideas.
However, crafting effective HMW questions requires a solid understanding of the problem space and the needs of the stakeholders involved. This is where the Point of View (POV) statement comes into play. The POV serves as a guiding beacon, grounding our problem-solving efforts in the experiences and perspectives of the end-users. It provides a concise summary of the user’s needs, aspirations, and challenges, setting the stage for the development of relevant HMW questions.
In this exercise, we’ll explore the symbiotic relationship between HMW questions and POV statements, understanding how they work together to drive innovation and problem-solving. By honing our ability to craft compelling HMW questions and POV statements, we can unlock fresh insights and uncover innovative solutions to complex challenges.
This worksheet gives some strategies to create different How Might We questions that may prompt an array of fruitful ideas. The goal is to create questions that provoke meaningful and relevant ideas by keeping the questions focused on solving the users’ needs.
Why and When to Ask “How Might We”
The “How Might We” (HMW) question serves as a catalyst for creative problem-solving, particularly in the Ideation phase of the Design Thinking process. It’s intentionally open-ended, encouraging exploration of various possibilities to address the core users’ needs. By framing the challenge as an HMW question, we set aside preconceived solutions and embrace collaborative brainstorming.
- “How” prompts us to acknowledge that we don’t have all the answers and prompts exploration of diverse solutions.
- “Might” suggests that the responses are potential solutions, not definitive ones, allowing for the exploration of multiple ideas.
- “We” emphasizes the collaborative effort, acknowledging that the solution will emerge from collective teamwork.
In community problem-solving, let’s consider the need for fresh food at schools and repurposing land for gardens and agricultural education.
For instance, if the point of view is: “Students at schools need access to consistent fresh foods,” the HMW questions could be:
- How might we provide fresh fruit and vegetables for students?
- How might we inspire school leaders to make fresh foods available to all students?
- How might we cultivate interest in growing fresh foods with students?
- How might we make nutritious food accessible and affordable to school communities?
These HMW questions guide the ideation process, ensuring that creative solutions align with the identified user needs and insights. They spark imagination and facilitate collaborative problem-solving to address the needs of all students effectively.
What is a good scenario to use How Might We?
Imagine you have been discussing a consistent problem and want to move from a certain problem to possible solutions. Reframing the core problems into How Might We statements helps you to turn challenges into opportunities and start the ideation phase.
Best Practice and Example Guide to Asking “How Might We”
POV Best Practice:
Begin with your Point of View (POV) or problem statement. Without a statement of a clear vision or goal from a well-framed Point Of View, “How Might We” will not be focused or relevant. These statements should be concise, user-focused, and action-oriented.
HMW Best Practice:
Look at your “How Might We” questions and ask yourself if they allow for various solutions. Your “How Might We” questions should generate several possible answers and will become a launch pad for your Ideation Sessions, such as Brainstorms.
Example Point of View:
Students in underserved communities face barriers to accessing nutritious food, impacting their health and academic performance.
Example How Might We Questions:
- How might we partner with local farmers to supply fresh produce to schools in low-income areas, ensuring students have access to nutritious options?
- How might we integrate practical nutrition education into the school curriculum, empowering students to make healthy food choices?
- How might we repurpose unused school land to establish community gardens, providing students with hands-on learning opportunities and fresh produce?
- How might we collaborate with food banks and community organizations to distribute fresh food to students and families in need, addressing food insecurity?
These statements guide collaborative problem-solving efforts, ensuring solutions are tailored to address the specific needs and challenges of underserved communities regarding fresh food access in schools.