HMW questions are open-ended questions that focus on potential solutions rather than problems. They are a way to reframe design challenges and inspire creative thinking. The format for an HMW question is “How might we [action] [goal] for [user group]?”
Example: Suppose you’re designing a mobile app for busy professionals who want to organize their schedules. A potential HMW question could be, “How might we simplify the scheduling process for busy professionals?”
How to use “How Might We” questions
- Identify the problem: Start by identifying the problem you want to solve. This can be done through user research, analytics, or other methods.
- Reframe the problem: Use an HMW question to reframe the problem and focus on potential solutions. Use the format “How might we [action] [goal] for [user group]?”
- Brainstorm solutions: Use the HMW question as a prompt for brainstorming potential solutions. Encourage creative thinking and avoid self-censorship.
- Evaluate solutions: Prioritize the potential solutions based on user needs and business goals.
An HMW question can generate lots of creative ideas.
Here are some more examples of How We Might questions:
- How might we ensure more people pay their taxes before the deadline?
- How might we help employees stay productive and healthy when working from home?
- How might we make customers feel their information is safe and secure when creating an account?
Key takeaways
- HMW questions are a useful tool for generating innovative design solutions.
- They focus on potential solutions rather than problems.
- The format for an HMW question is “How might we [action] [goal] for [user group]?”
- HMW questions can be used to reframe design challenges and inspire creative thinking.
- Use HMW questions as a prompt for brainstorming potential solutions and evaluating them based on user needs and business goals.