Description Long

Storyboards are used to visualise processes. In product development, they can illustrate possible usage scenarios, the interaction between products, or the behaviour of those involved (users). The task is to summarise previously developed ideas or idea fragments into a short story and present it in the form of a storyboard. This makes it possible to visualise, refine and test how the idea functions within a logical sequence. It also allows different behaviours or reactions of those involved to be depicted and a line of reasoning to be developed. A storyboard – also referred to as a script or scene outline – usually consists of a sequence of images accompanied by explanatory text. Each image represents a key step in the overall process.

Illustration

Preparation

• Prepare templates for developing the storyboards.
• Define the objective of the storyboard.

Execution

1. Select one or more ideas or fragments of ideas, combine them into a story, and try to represent it in a storyboard.
2. Present the story to an external person.
3. Gather feedback: Is the reasoning coherent? Is the core message logical and convincing? Is the storyline effective?

Hints from experience

• Ensure that participants do not get too caught up in detailed drawings and sketches – this often costs time and ideas.
• Participants who lack confidence in drawing or sketching should not be left behind. They can be encouraged by emphasising that the focus is on the ideas, not the artistic quality of the drawings.
• Online: Use apps such as Canva, Storyboard That, or Miro.

Tools list

• Paper and pencil
• Storyboard templates

References