Design Playbook (Tools & Practices)

 

Yes, And Practice: Replace “Yes, but” with “Yes, and…” to build momentum.

Reframing Problems: Turn limiting statements into possibility questions (e.g., “We can’t…” → “How might we…?”).

Killer Phrase Audit: Identify common idea-killers and create generative alternatives.

Metaphor Mapping: Use metaphors to expand how problems and solutions are understood.

Question Storming: Generate questions instead of answers to expand exploration.

 

Mindset (Reflection & Journaling)

 

What is the language I use most often — does it shrink or expand possibility?

Do I use words that invite collaboration, or ones that close it off?

What metaphors shape how I see my work and relationships?

 

Provocation:

“Our words are not just labels. They are acts of design.”

 

Facilitation Principle

 

As a facilitator, your role is to curate the language of the room. Notice when participants slip into killer phrases and reframe them. Model generative speech in your own words. Invite participants to experiment with new language patterns. In doing so, you transform language from a habit into a creative tool.

 

Facilitator’s Mantra: “Language builds the house we create in.”

 

Facilitation Toolkit (Methods & Activities)

 

Yes, And Circle: Participants take turns building on one another’s ideas.

Reframe Relay: Teams reframe negative statements into possibilities.

Language Jar: Collect phrases heard during a session, then reflect on their impact.

Story Crafting: Invite teams to frame their project as a compelling narrative.

Word Swap: Replace jargon or abstract terms with human-centred, simple language.