Bodystorming
Role-play to inspire new ideas and spontaneous prototyping.
Bodystorming is a physical brainstorming method that combines role-playing and simulation to inspire new ideas and spontaneous prototyping. It involves designers immersing themselves in user situations within loosely configured or simulated contexts, paying attention to decisions, interactions, and emotional responses. This method can engage both design teams and a broader audience, including peers and clients. Unlike traditional role-playing, bodystorming actively encourages design ideation and concept testing, integrating new ideas and creating additional product and service concepts on the fly. Props used in bodystorming can be simple, like cardboard or existing furniture, and scenarios are often spontaneous, promoting real-world experience capture through improvisation.
Step 1
Preparation: Define the objectives of the bodystorming session, identify key scenarios, and gather simple props such as cardboard, foam core, or existing furniture to represent the environment and objects.
Step 2
Setup: Create a simulated environment based on the identified scenarios. Arrange the props to mimic real-world settings, such as using chairs to represent car seats or tables as beds, and adjust lighting conditions as needed.
Step 3
Role Assignment: Assign roles to participants, including designers, stakeholders, or even potential users. Ensure that each participant understands their role and the context of the scenario.
Step 4
Immersive Acting: Engage participants in active role-play within the simulated environment. Encourage them to move through the space, interact with props, and focus on decisions, interactive experiences, and emotional responses.
Step 5
Ideation and Testing: During the bodystorming session, integrate and test new concept ideas in real-time. Allow participants to spontaneously create and refine additional product and service concepts based on their interactions and observations.
Step 6
Debrief and Analysis: After the session, gather participants to discuss their experiences, insights, and any new ideas generated. Document the findings and consider how they can inform further design and prototyping efforts.
In Inna Alesina's bodystorming activity, design students were asked to use ”tools” to bodystorm ideas in response to prompts.
