This is an interesting way of identifying what the current frustrations of work might be and what solutions might evolve based on worker perspectives rather than management initiatives.
Steps
- Give participants a repurposed piece of technology (e.g. an old dictaphone) or something made specially for the purpose (e.g. a box with switches, LEDs, connectors, ports and screens).
- Ask them to imagine that this is a ‘very advanced technology’ which is going to make their work easier, or more efficient, or more pleasurable.
- They describe what it is and how it works. You don’t need to focus on technical details, the emphasis is on the tasks and process it enables.