Human Centered Design
Using human centered design methods, we work with nonprofits and governments to close the gap between bureaucracy and innovation. Specifically, we focus on:
Changing the way people think about problems
Creating a sense of confidence in using new methods to find innovative solutions
Teaching methodology, building design teams, and identifying challenges in the public sector
Using interviews and prototypes, as well as drawing insights from user research
Creating a culture change - moving toward mindsets focusing on the customer rather than focusing on compliance
Facilitation
We’ve developed an approach to meetings that creates structure and order for gatherings of every kind. We facilitate experiences that include:
Settings where everyone feels comfortable to share their ideas
A space where groups are able to reach consensus and build strategies for action
Meetings that close with the promise of achievement and follow up
A focus on the details of each meeting—from the physical set-up, to the invitations, to the way the meeting is facilitated
While working with Virginia Hamilton to create collaboration around ways to implement human centered design inside the workforce system more holistically, I was extremely impressed with her attention to detail and ability to create an environment where different teams moved toward one unified goal. She has a unique ability to encourage open dialogue around perspectives in order to develop a plan to address differences. I would highly recommend Virginia to any entity wanting to improve the way they interaction with the people they serve.
/ rebecca - General Counsel, Governor’s Workforce Cabinet, State of Indiana /
Public Speaking
We’ve given speeches to the California Workforce Association, the Department of Labor, and in many other capacities in the nonprofit space. Topics include:
Future of work
Systems design and organizational development
Innovation
How to use human centered design in the public sector
Processes to improve services and products
Teaching
Using the insights gleaned from years of experience we have working in the public sector and years of learning and training, we design and teach courses for public servants and non-profit leaders who want skills and frameworks to improve processes and services. These courses include:
GOV21, in collaboration with the Partnership for Public Service
Introduction to Human Centered Design
Human Centered Design Intensives
Facilitation, Participation, and Meeting Design