Design thinking resource
A collaborative design approach that involves users and stakeholders directly in the creation of solutions.
Participatory design shifts the role of users from research participants to design partners. Rather than designing for people, teams design alongside them.
Participants contribute insights, ideas and experiences that help shape solutions.
Stakeholders often possess valuable knowledge about challenges, barriers and opportunities. Their lived experiences can reveal practical considerations and hidden needs that may otherwise be overlooked.
This helps keep innovation grounded in real-world contexts.
Solutions developed collaboratively frequently achieve stronger acceptance because stakeholders have influenced their development. Participation can also improve trust, inclusivity and implementation success.
Put the method to work
Select stakeholders who represent diverse perspectives.
Use workshops, sketches, storyboards and design games.
Encourage participants to generate and develop concepts.
Use the outputs to inform concept development and decision-making.
Why it matters
Ensure diverse voices contribute to outcomes.
Ground concepts in lived experience.
Increase engagement and commitment.
Replace guesswork with direct contribution.
Continue exploring
Place this method back within the broader 5E Design Thinking Framework and continue developing your understanding.