Energizing, Participatory, and Meaningful. The core of what we do.
Above values we had in mind when designing a one-hour visual thinking workshop with the Zorg Marketing Week Festival 2011. We started off with a live demonstration on visual recording of a speech – on the history of visual thinking, and where we are now. We also shared our vision on the power of combining visual thinking and (offline) interaction design. Remember the (Dutch) teaser we shared earlier? Anyways, let us share what is more:
A workshop would not be a workshop without actual meaningful WORK. So we had Winnie Nijhoff from Mixe who introduced a real life case (we selected upfront). Bringing in text excerpts from a patient information folder, we wanted to give the participants the chance to experience themselves how visual thinking can help. And how you can make a difference, even on this level. A great and buzzing energy was among the 28 participants in the room as they all went to work with papers and markers. In groups they focused on Layout, Metaphors and Storyboards. 
In the last 15 minutes we had participants reflect on what made them proud, what challenged them, and what they learned. Especially the letting go of irrelevant information seemed to be a challenge – keeping it simple (even when it is complex). Something we do recognize for sure (yet can be trained very well, fortunately).
During the workshop Oscar continued to harvest what was in the room. The visual was later hanging in the main hall. Where people could study it, and discuss, while enjoying the great snacks and drinks that were all present.
ModelMinds was present with one graphical harvester, two poets, an illustrator, and a facilitator. In that order, these were Oscar, Harry, Matthijs, Krijn, and Manuel. Great team, great output. Again a day to be proud of!
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