Design Sprint
A five-day intensive framework developed at Google Ventures by Jake Knapp. Each day has a specific focus: Map (understand the problem), Sketch (generate individual solutions), Decide (select the best approach), Prototype (build a realistic-looking prototype), and Test (validate with five real users). It compresses months of iterative work into one week, producing a tested prototype and real user data before a single line of code is written.
How to run it
- 1
Day 1 — Map: Agree on a long-term goal, map the challenge, and pick a target. Interview experts.
- 2
Day 2 — Sketch: Review inspiration, individual brainstorming, Crazy 8s, solution sketching.
- 3
Day 3 — Decide: Sticky decision (silent dot voting), speed critique, storyboard for the prototype.
- 4
Day 4 — Prototype: Build a realistic but fake prototype in one day. Divide roles: Makers, Stitcher, Writer, Asset Collector, Interviewer.
- 5
Day 5 — Test: Five 1:1 user interviews. Team watches via video link. Debrief patterns across interviews.
- 6
Capture learnings and decide on next steps.
Tips
No devices in the room during the sprint (except for designated research).
The Decider (product/business owner) must be present the entire time — decisions cannot be delegated.
Five users is the minimum for reliable pattern recognition.',
Variations
Run a 3-day or 4-day sprint by compressing phases. Use a 'sprint light' for smaller questions that don't require a full week. Remote sprints work with the right digital tooling (Miro, Figma).
Where it fits
Frequently asked questions
When should I use Design Sprint?â–¾
Use Design Sprint when you want to: New product development; Critical business problems; Feature validation; Innovation week formats.
How long does Design Sprint take?â–¾
Design Sprint typically takes 1440 minutes.
How many participants does Design Sprint work for?â–¾
Design Sprint works best for groups of 4–8 participants.
What materials do I need for Design Sprint?â–¾
To run Design Sprint you will need: whiteboard, sticky notes, markers, paper, prototyping materials, user testing guide.
How difficult is Design Sprint to facilitate?â–¾
Design Sprint is rated advanced — best facilitated by an experienced workshop leader.
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