Participatory Methods

Prototype gallery

The Prototype gallery is a participatory activity where participants create and showcase initial models or prototypes of ideas, products, services, or projects to receive constructive feedback from others. This approach promotes iteration, continuous improvement, and collaboration, allowing teams to refine their proposals through interaction with diverse perspectives.

Preparation

  1. Define the objective:
    • Establish the purpose of the prototypes: they can be solutions to a problem, product designs, service proposals, etc.
    • Clarify the criteria or aspects that will be evaluated during the feedback process (e.g., usability, innovation, impact).
  2. Gather materials:
    • Materials for physical prototypes: cardboard, paper, modeling clay, adhesive tape, markers, etc.
    • Digital tools for virtual prototypes: design software, presentation tools, modeling applications.
    • Exhibition elements: tables, panels, whiteboards, labels.
  3. Physical or virtual space:
    • Set up a spacious area where teams can display their prototypes and participants can move around comfortably.
    • If online, prepare a platform that allows sharing and commenting on digital prototypes (e.g., Miro, MURAL, Padlet).

Step-by-step instructions

  1. Introduction to the purpose
    • Explain the objective of the activity and the importance of feedback in the design process.
    • Emphasize that prototypes are initial models, not final products; they are meant to be iterated and improved.
  2. Team formation and prototype creation
    • Divide participants into small teams (3-5 people).
    • Each team works on developing a prototype of their idea using the available materials.
    • Set a time limit for creation (e.g., 60-90 minutes) to keep the activity dynamic.
  3. Exhibition preparation
    • Once the prototypes are completed, teams set up their display space in the gallery.
    • They can include brief descriptions, images, diagrams, or any elements that help explain their prototype.
  4. Gallery walk
    • Participants walk through the gallery, visiting other teams’ prototypes.
    • They can move in groups or freely, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to see each prototype.
  5. Constructive feedback
    • Encourage visitors to provide constructive feedback.
    • You can provide sticky notes or feedback cards for participants to write their observations and leave them at each prototype station.
    • Suggest that feedback be specific, focusing on strengths and areas for improvement.
  6. Team discussion
    • After the gallery walk, each team reviews the feedback they received.
    • They discuss how they can incorporate suggestions to improve their prototype.
    • Teams can plan future iterations or immediate adjustments.
  7. Closure and reflection
    • Gather all participants to share insights and key learnings.
    • Reflect on the value of collaboration and feedback in the creative process.
    • Encourage teams to continue developing their ideas beyond the activity.
Recommendations
  • Encourage a respectful and open environment: Ensure that feedback is constructive and that everyone feels comfortable sharing and receiving comments.
  • Variety of materials: Provide a range of materials so teams can be creative in representing their ideas.
  • Time management: Set clear time limits for each stage of the activity and communicate them to participants.
  • Documentation: Encourage teams to document their prototypes and the feedback received for future reference.
  • Adaptability: The activity can be adjusted to include multiple rounds of prototyping and feedback, promoting deeper iterations.
Materials
  • For physical prototypes:
    • Paper, cardboard, modeling clay, wooden sticks, fabric, etc.
    • Scissors, glue, adhesive tape.
    • Markers, colored pencils.
  • For digital prototypes:
    • Computers or tablets.
    • Design software.
    • Internet access and collaborative tools.
  • For the exhibition:
    • Tables or panels to display prototypes.
    • Labels or posters with the project name and team.
    • Sticky notes or feedback cards.
Online platforms
Purpose
A space for exchange and collaborative learning where participants can present their initial ideas, receive valuable feedback, and refine their proposals. The activity promotes creativity, effective communication, and critical thinking—key elements in design and innovation processes.
Type of activity
Participatory Action ResearchParticipatory DesignParticipatory Learning
Level of participation
Collaboration, Knowledge generation, Exchange of perspectives
Target audience
Facilitators, Students, Community leaders, NGOs and social collectives, Business teams, Government, Creative designers, Researchers
Fields of application
Education and training, Community development, Organizational and business management, Urban and rural planning, Health and social well-being, Art, culture, and creativity, Sustainability and environment, Public policies and governance, Innovation and design, Research and evaluation, Conflict resolution, Technology and digital environments, Citizen and social participation
Estimated duration
From 2 to 4 hours, depending on the number of teams and the depth of the feedback. The activity can be adapted for shorter sessions or extended if time is included for iterating the prototypes.
Ideal number of participants
From 10 to 30 people, organized into small teams to facilitate active participation and time management.
Topics related to this activity
Collaborative InnovationDesign ThinkingParticipatory DesignRapid PrototypingTeam Creativity
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