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Service Naming Workshop

This workshop helps teams generate and refine potential names for a service, ensuring it resonates with users and accurately reflects its purpose. By focusing on user needs and common language, the team can arrive at a name that is both understandable and discoverable.

60-90 min3-10 peopleHard
When to Use

Use this method when launching a new service or rebranding an existing one. It's particularly useful when the initial name is confusing or doesn't align with user expectations.

How It Works

Solves: A service name that is internally focused, confusing to users, or difficult to find online.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to facilitate this method
  1. 1

    Step 1: (10 min) Review the service's purpose and target audience. Discuss the problem the service solves and the user needs it addresses.

  2. 2

    Step 2: (20 min) Brainstorm potential names. Encourage participants to use verbs and focus on the task the user is trying to accomplish.

  3. 3

    Step 3: (20 min) Evaluate names against criteria: clarity, memorability, searchability, and alignment with user language.

  4. 4

    Step 4: (20 min) Refine the shortlist. Combine elements from different names, iterate on promising options, and eliminate those that don't meet the criteria.

  5. 5

    Step 5: (10 min) Prioritize the top 3-5 names for further testing and validation.

Facilitator Tips
  • Encourage participants to think like users and use their language.
  • Remind the team to avoid jargon and internal terminology.
  • Keep the focus on the task the user is trying to accomplish, not the technology behind the service.
Variations
  • Conduct a 'bad name' brainstorm to identify what to avoid.
  • Involve users in the naming process through surveys or interviews.
Source: GOV.UK Service ManualLearn more