Learning objective
Choose a bounded question that a realistic prototype and user test can answer.
Why it matters
A team debates a risky concept for months without showing anyone a testable version.
Core concept
Move through understanding, defining, sketching, deciding, prototyping and validation. A sprint is a bounded learning event; user responses and safeguards determine what happens next.
Scenario
A city considers a complex disaster-alert app. Residents currently miss evacuation instructions when messages use unfamiliar landmarks.
Worked decision
Prototype two short alert formats with accessible landmarks, test comprehension with residents and emergency staff, then decide whether an app is needed.
Decision rule
Observe representative users, synthesise disagreement and choose the next test.
Ethical boundary
Using a polished prototype to sell a chosen solution or treating five interviews as statistical proof.
AI lens
Use AI to organize evidence, then verify its source and keep decision authority with people.
Quick check
What would invalidate the first proposed action? Using a polished prototype to sell a chosen solution or treating five interviews as statistical proof.
Next step
Complete the Design Sprint case.