How can you address power dynamics in the design process?

1 Understand power

Power is not just a fixed attribute or a position of authority. It is a complex and dynamic phenomenon that shapes and is shaped by social relations, contexts, and interactions. Power can be visible, hidden, or invisible, depending on how it is exercised, challenged, or resisted. Power can also be positive or negative, depending on how it is used, shared, or distributed. To address power dynamics, you need to understand how power operates in your group, who has it, who lacks it, and how it affects the design process.

2 Create a safe space

A safe space is not just a physical location, but a psychological and emotional environment where people feel comfortable, respected, and valued. A safe space allows people to express their ideas, opinions, and feelings without fear of judgment, ridicule, or retaliation. To create a safe space, you need to establish clear and transparent ground rules, norms, and expectations for the group. You also need to model and encourage positive behaviors, such as active listening, empathy, and constructive feedback. Additionally, you need to monitor and intervene in any conflicts, tensions, or breaches of trust that may arise.

3 Diversify participation

Diversifying participation means ensuring that everyone in the group has an equal opportunity and access to contribute, influence, and benefit from the design process. Diversifying participation also means recognizing and valuing the different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives that people bring to the table. To diversify participation, you need to use a variety of methods and tools that suit the needs, preferences, and abilities of the group. You also need to balance the voices and roles of the group, making sure that no one dominates or silences others. Furthermore, you need to solicit and incorporate feedback and input from all stakeholders, especially those who are marginalized or underrepresented.

4 Challenge assumptions

Challenging assumptions means questioning and testing the validity, relevance, and impact of the beliefs, values, and norms that inform the design process. Challenging assumptions also means exploring and exposing the biases, stereotypes, and prejudices that may affect the design outcomes. To challenge assumptions, you need to foster a culture of curiosity, inquiry, and learning in the group. You also need to use critical thinking and evidence-based reasoning to evaluate and refine the design ideas and solutions. Moreover, you need to invite and welcome different viewpoints and perspectives that can enrich and expand the design possibilities.

5 Co-create solutions

Co-creating solutions means involving and empowering the group in the design process, from defining the problem to implementing the solution. Co-creating solutions also means sharing and distributing the ownership, responsibility, and accountability of the design outcomes. To co-create solutions, you need to facilitate a collaborative and iterative process that builds on the collective knowledge, skills, and creativity of the group. You also need to support and enable the group to make decisions, take actions, and learn from the results. Additionally, you need to celebrate and acknowledge the contributions and achievements of the group.

6 Reflect and improve

Reflecting and improving means assessing and reviewing the design process and outcomes, as well as the power dynamics and relationships that influenced them. Reflecting and improving also means identifying and addressing the gaps, challenges, and opportunities for improvement and learning. To reflect and improve, you need to solicit and provide honest and constructive feedback to the group and yourself. You also need to measure and document the impact and value of the design solutions. Furthermore, you need to plan and implement changes and adjustments that can enhance the design process and outcomes.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?