“How might we” (often abbreviated as HMW) is a question-posing method used in design thinking and problem-solving processes. This approach is intended to open up the floor for creative thinking and innovative solutions by framing challenges as open-ended, solvable problems.
The “How might we” questions are designed to:
-
Encourage Openness and Possibility: By using “might,” the phrase suggests flexibility and opens up multiple avenues for solutions, encouraging out-of-the-box thinking.
-
Foster Collaborative Thinking: It’s inclusive and invites contributions from a diverse group of people, each bringing their unique perspectives and ideas.
-
Focus on Solvability: The phrase implies that there is a solution to be found, promoting a positive approach to problem-solving.
-
Frame Challenges as Opportunities: Instead of seeing problems as obstacles, the HMW approach reframes them as opportunities for innovation and improvement.
For example, instead of saying, “We need to improve our customer service,” a team might ask, “How might we create a more engaging and efficient customer service experience?” This rephrasing not only opens up creative avenues for solutions but also shifts the mindset from one of fixing what’s broken to exploring new possibilities.
“How might we” questions are a staple in design thinking workshops and are widely used in user experience design, product development, and organizational strategy to stimulate innovative thinking and collaborative problem-solving.