Sketch Boards

Sketch Boards ¹⁾ are a simple method to present sketches and storyboards to other people. Thereby to tell others stories about the his sketches clarifies the designers thinking about them. Suggestions and critique by others will lead to inspiration, uncovers unconsidered problems and introduces new ideas.

Use a foam core sheet if you want to make your sketches portable.

• Use a large and empty canvas to arrange your sketches into a sketch board.

• Arrange the relevant sketches on the poster sheet.
• If you are using sketches from a sketch book use photo copies of them.
• Use pins instead of tape to make your sketches easy to rearrange.

The special layout of sketches on the board helps to structure them.

• Sketches of similar themes can be grouped into clusters by drawing a circle around their cluster.
• Use sticky notes to classify you sketches/groups.
• Make a picture of your old arrangement, before you rearrange it. This gives the possibility to compare and remember the old arrangement.

A white board is a good solution if you don't need portable sketches and have no foam core poster sheet.

• Use different colored sticky notes to replicate your sketches.
• Sticky notes are supporting the classification of the sketches and are easy to rearrange on the whiteboard.

• The easy rearranging of sticky notes are a particularly useful method for sketches, that are illustrating time sequences like storyboards.

To arrange the storyboards of the current project around your working desk makes them more visible. The sketches can inspire your work. They are also a good starting point for conversations and discussions. For example a foam core board can be easily hung on walls.

Bring your sketch boards to the meeting where you plan to discuss the project. Therefore yo can refer to particular sketches, while you are explaining your project ideas. You can also initiate your own meeting like a „Donut-Break“. Give your colleges a free donut and discuss your sketches.

Another good point to show your sketches on sketch boards are public areas like the hallway of the firm building or other suitable public areas.

Placing your sketch boards on a public space at your working area gives you the possibility to make your sketches more visible to your group or organization. If you do so prepare something for feedback like a pen and sticky notes near the poster board. This invites your colleges to comment your work or add new sketches.

To place sketches in the customer location includes them in the early design phase. For feedback put a comment box near the sketches and leave your email address or phone number (e.g. on the back of the board).