C-Box What Is a C-Box? We use a C-Box to generate an overview from a Keywords
multitude of early ideas. The C-Box is a 2 x 2 Matrix.
Clustering
Two axes are determined that represent criteria
Evaluation
according to which the ideas are evaluated. In a
Intuitive
C-Box usually the criteria ‘innovativeness’ (for the
Brainstorm
users) and ‘feasibility’ are used. A C-Box has four
Idea selection
quadrants based on these axes. You are able to judge quickly whether ideas are immediately feasible or not, and whether they are highly innovative or not.
fig. 2.59 Example of C-Box (from student report)
A C-box is commonly used in a brainstorm workshop in order to judge the numerous ideas that are
Expected Outcome
generated in such a workshop. This method also
The outcome of a C-Box is an overview of the early
works effectively when you are eager to drop highly
ideas, clustered in four groups based on criteria set to
innovative ideas. This method could also be seen as
the axes of the C-Box. Effectively, you have created a
a first cluster activity of early ideas. However, the
first rough distinction between ideas in four groups.
clusters are predetermined by the axes you choose. It is possible to vary the meaning of the axes, for future technology
example ‘attractiveness’ and ‘functionality’.
Possible Procedure 1 Create two axes (innovativeness and feasibility) on a large paper and construct the 2 x 2 C-Box with those
When Can You Use a C-Box? A C-Box is commonly used in early idea generation, present technology
in case of a surplus of early ideas (for example 40+ ideas) generated in a brainstorm session.
two axes, for example using Scotch tape on a wall surface. functionality: one end is the familiar, the other end represents highly innovative. feasibility: one end is not feasible, the other end
present use
futuristic use
fig. 2.58 C-Box extended (from PO3 course 2008-2009)
How to Use a C-Box? Starting Point
represents immediately feasible. 2 Make sure all ideas are written down, or drawn on a
The starting points of a C-Box is a multitude of early
small piece of paper, for example on a post-it or an
ideas (40-60 ideas).
A5/A4-size paper.
Delft Design Guide | Part 2 | Decision and Selection | C-Box –
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