The Power of Lived Experience in Design Creation

When approaching new solutions, many of the organizations we work with are eager to create innovative solutions. They put in countless hours building new solutions from the ground up. Unfortunately, all too often they watch these programs and solutions slowly fizzle out as they fail to gain traction in their community and target populations. All of the surveying and data collection in the world cannot change the fact that many organizations are designing solutions that are not guided by the people with lived experience in the matter. We see this across industries and areas of focus. From food banks to health clinics and private schools to local governance; solutions that are not led by people with lived experience fail to consider the full needs, wants and cultural realities of the groups they are targeting. 

This concept is being widely embraced but how can organizations that find themselves in this position make sure to center lived experience? Here are some things to consider:

Co-create and prototype together

In networks of all sizes, organizations have a tendency to only want to share products with the broader network when it is “finished.” At the same time, we know that more buy-in and shared commitment can be developed through a conscious effort to co-create ideas across organizations. Co-creation can often start with prototyping. Prototyping is all about action-based learning. When prototyping, the focus is not on creating a perfect plan, but rather on making progress. 

In short, many organizations have the perfectionist problem and they wait to share their solutions until the perfect end stage. Combat this by bringing in other voices early in the process. Learn more on co-creation and prototyping by watching this short video from Jordan Vernoy, partner at See What I Mean. You can also download our free eBook “The Six Practices of Effective Network Leadership” to read more on these and other essential practices. 

Give voice and agency to people with lived experience

This is a lifelong process that includes building and maintaining relationships with people, community organizations and businesses in your community. It may look like bringing new people into positions of power such as board members, project contractors or directors, or asking them to serve on a steering committee. Whichever route, be sure you are compensating people for their time and knowledge. This could include a stipend, salary, and should also include supporting their individual interests and connecting them to other community members to build partnerships. 

Closing the feedback loop

How many times have you implemented a change only to later hear that no one has adopted the very change they asked for? So often, we struggle to close the feedback loop and fail to demonstrate and communicate how we are responding to clients and constituents. 

Learn how you can close the feedback loop by reading this article. 

If you and your organization could benefit from some support of this process, you’re not alone. Book a discovery session with our team