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      CO-STAR

      An IdeaScale Whiteboard facilitator guide for CO-STAR

      This IdeaScale Whiteboard will be our collaborative space for exploring and defining an idea using the CO-STAR framework. We will use its features to capture the different elements of CO-STAR and refine them.

      Brainstorming Objectives:

      • To thoroughly analyze an idea or opportunity using the CO-STAR framework.
      • To define the Opportunity, Customer, Solution, and Results of the idea.
      • To identify the Team involved and the Advantage of the solution.
      • To use the whiteboard to visually map the CO-STAR elements and their interrelationships.

      Timing: 90 minutes

      Introduction - 15 Minutes

      Brainstorming Instructions - 60 minutes

      Adjourn - 15 Minutes

      Tips for Facilitators

      Introduction (15 minutes)

      • Welcome participants and introduce the CO-STAR framework.
      • Explain the elements of CO-STAR based on the provided document:
        • Customer: Description and unmet needs
        • Opportunity: Trends and Market Potential
        • Solution: Customer Benefits
        • Results: Returns
        • Team: Internal Members and External Partners
        • Advantage: Superiority over alternatives and RisksExplain the elements of CO-STAR based on the provided document: 
      • Explain how to use the digital sticky notes and drawing tools on the whiteboard to capture information for each CO-STAR element.
      • Clearly state the idea or opportunity that will be analyzed.

      Brainstorming Instructions (60 minutes)

      • Activity 1: Customer and Opportunity (20 minutes)
        • Describe the Customer, focusing on their description and unmet needs.
        • Use digital sticky notes to capture this information, creating "Opportunity" and "Customer" sections on the whiteboard.
        • Define the Opportunity by exploring the relevant trends and the market potential.
      • Activity 2: Solution and Results (20 minutes)
        • Detail the Solution, emphasizing the benefits it provides to the customer.
        • Outline the Results, focusing on the expected returns from the solution.
        • Use digital sticky notes to capture this information, adding "Solution" and "Results" sections to the whiteboard.
      • Activity 3: Team and Advantage (20 minutes)
        • Identify the Team involved, including both internal members and external partners.
        • Define the Advantage of the solution by explaining its superiority over alternatives and any associated risks.
        • Use digital sticky notes to capture this information, creating "Team" and "Advantage" sections on the whiteboard. Facilitate a discussion to ensure all CO-STAR elements are well-defined.

      Adjourn (15 minutes)

      • Summarize the key insights and findings from the CO-STAR analysis.
      • Discuss potential next steps for developing the idea or opportunity.
      • Capture the final CO-STAR framework on the whiteboard and distribute it to participants.
      • Thank participants for their contributions.

      Tips for Facilitators

      • Ensure everyone understands the CO-STAR framework and its elements as defined in the provided document.
      • Encourage active participation and diverse perspectives.
      • Use the digital whiteboard to visually organize the information for each CO-STAR element.
      • Keep the discussion focused and productive.
      • Ensure the final CO-STAR framework provides a comprehensive view of the idea or opportunity.