The How Might We (HMW) question framework is a method used in design thinking to reframe challenges as opportunities. By posing a problem as a question that begins with “How might we…,” the method opens possibilities for brainstorming solutions. It encourages creativity and invites a collaborative approach to problem-solving.
Use it to
Turn a problem or challenge into an opportunity for innovation.
Encourage a mindset that focuses on possibilities, rather than constraints.
Stimulate creative brainstorming sessions with a user-centred focus.
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Keep the questions broad enough to allow for creativity but focused enough to provide useful solutions.
Involve various stakeholders to generate diverse perspectives when crafting HMW questions.
Frame questions positively to encourage optimistic, solution-oriented thinking.
Write multiple HMW questions around the same problem to approach it from different angles.
How – to
Identify a key challenge or insight from your user research or design process.
Reframe the problem into a question that begins with “How might we…?”
Brainstorm potential solutions with your team, focusing on the opportunities implied by the HMW question.
Iterate and refine the question based on the brainstorming outcomes, if necessary.
How Might We
Reframe challenges or problems as opportunities
The How Might We (HMW) question framework is a method used in design thinking to reframe challenges as opportunities. By posing a problem as a question that begins with “How might we…,” the method opens possibilities for brainstorming solutions. It encourages creativity and invites a collaborative approach to problem-solving.
Use it to
Top Tips
How – to
Related Methods
Stakeholder Maps
User Stories
How Now Wow