For IDEO's design thinking courses, should we prioritize depth of content or accessibility to a wider audience?

Introduction

The trade-off between depth of content and accessibility for IDEO's design thinking courses presents a critical decision point. This scenario involves balancing the richness of educational material against the potential to reach a broader audience. I'll analyze this trade-off by examining key factors, metrics, and potential outcomes to provide a strategic recommendation.

Step 1

Clarifying Questions (3 minutes)

• Context: I'm thinking IDEO's current courses might be too advanced for some potential users. Could you share insights on the current completion rates and user feedback regarding course difficulty?

Why it matters: Helps understand the existing balance between depth and accessibility Expected answer: Moderate completion rates, some users find courses challenging Impact on approach: Would indicate a need for tiered course offerings

• Business Context: Based on IDEO's business model, I assume these courses are a significant revenue stream. How do they contribute to overall company revenue and strategic goals?

Why it matters: Aligns solution with business objectives Expected answer: Courses are a major revenue source and key to brand positioning Impact on approach: Would prioritize maintaining or increasing revenue while expanding reach

• User Impact: I'm curious about the primary user segments for these courses. Can you provide information on the current user demographics and their learning objectives?

Why it matters: Ensures solution addresses core user needs Expected answer: Mix of professionals and students, varying levels of design experience Impact on approach: Would suggest tailoring content depth to different user segments

• Technical Feasibility: Considering potential technical constraints, what's our current capability to offer personalized or adaptive learning paths within the course platform?

Why it matters: Determines viability of sophisticated content delivery solutions Expected answer: Basic personalization possible, full adaptive learning would require development Impact on approach: Would influence the complexity of proposed solutions

• Resource Allocation: Given this trade-off's importance, I'm wondering about our team's capacity to redesign course content or develop new delivery methods. What resources are available for this initiative?

Why it matters: Ensures proposed solution is feasible within current constraints Expected answer: Moderate resources available, potential for additional allocation if justified Impact on approach: Would shape the scope and timeline of proposed changes