Three design partners at Google Ventures have developed a distinctive and effective problem-solving approach known as the “sprint.” This five-day process leverages design, prototyping, and customer testing to tackle challenging issues.
Startups backed by Google Ventures encounter significant questions daily, such as where to focus their efforts and how to initiate action. They also wonder how to visualize their ideas in practical terms and determine the most suitable solutions efficiently. Business owners and investors desire swift answers to these critical questions from their companies and leaders. Fortunately, the sprint method provides a reliable way to address their challenges and test potential solutions.
Jake Knapp, a designer at Google, first introduced this problem-solving technique called the “design sprint” during his time there. The process spans five days and has been successfully applied to projects like Google Search, Chrome, and Google X. After moving to Google Ventures, Knapp joined forces with fellow designers and partners Braden Kowitz and John Zeratsky, who had worked on products such as YouTube and Gmail. Together, they have collectively executed over 100 sprints with the companies in their portfolio, witnessing how this approach can overcome obstacles across various industries, including healthcare, fitness, finance, and retail.
The book “Sprint” serves as a practical guide to address business questions effectively. It caters to groups of all sizes, from small startups to Fortune 100 companies, and encompasses diverse fields, from teachers to non-profit organizations. The book is a valuable resource for anyone with ambitious opportunities, complex problems, or innovative ideas seeking prompt and actionable answers.
