How-Now-Wow Matrix
The How-Now-Wow Matrix is an idea selection tool that helps teams evaluate ideas based on their originality and feasibility. It encourages a balanced approach to innovation by considering both the potential impact and the ease of implementation.
Use this method after a brainstorming session to prioritize ideas and identify those that are most likely to be successful.
Solves: Difficulty prioritizing ideas; tendency to choose familiar or easy-to-implement ideas over more innovative ones.
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Step 1: Draw a 2x2 matrix on a whiteboard or flip chart. Label the axes 'Originality (Wow)' and 'Feasibility (How).' (5 min)
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Step 2: Explain the criteria for each quadrant: 'How' (easy to implement), 'Now' (implementable in the short term), 'Wow' (highly original and impactful). (5 min)
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Step 3: Have participants individually or in small groups place each idea on the matrix based on its 'How,' 'Now,' and 'Wow' factors. (20 min)
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Step 4: Discuss the placement of each idea and prioritize those in the 'Wow' quadrant. (10-15 min)
- Encourage participants to be honest and objective in their evaluations.
- Focus on the potential impact of each idea, not just its feasibility.
- Use a 3x3 matrix with more granular ratings.
- Assign numerical scores to each idea based on its 'How,' 'Now,' and 'Wow' factors.