DBE Toolbox for Teachers

The creation of visualized (drawn or built) test versions, or prototypes, is a powerful and typical design tool to create a concrete representation of a solution to test, refine and improve ideas. By building a sketch version of an idea, you can explore how the solution works in practice, identify potential shortcomings and gather feedback. When the idea is drawn or illustrated with photo material or built into a mockup version, it is easier for testers to get a grip on what exactly is being tested. Also, a shared vision of the DBE project solution by the student team becomes more concrete when prototyping.

Prototype testing is the process of testing a concrete drawn or built solution or a digital model to understand how well the solution will work in practice. It allows student teams to gather feedback, tune the solution and refine the design.

Business model canvas is a strategic tool used to reflect the key elements of a business or solution. It helps to test, analyse and refine how each component contributes to solving the problem and creating value. By looking at different aspects such as customer segments, value propositions and cost structures, the student team can fine-tune the business case for the solution produced in a DBE project.