Facilitator Guide: Storyboard Brainstorm

An IdeaScale Whiteboard facilitator guide for Storyboard Board

The Storyboard board serves as our collaborative platform for visualizing the user journey in a structured manner. It allows us to represent each step of the user's experience, incorporating images, annotations, and concepts that enhance the narrative.


Brainstorming Objectives:

  • To visually map out a user's journey and experience in a given scenario.
  • To identify potential pain points, opportunities for improvement, and key touchpoints in the user experience.
  • To foster empathy and understanding of the user's perspective.

Timing: 90 minutes

Introduction - 10 Minutes

Brainstorming Instructions - 70 minutes

Adjourn - 10 Minutes

Tips for Facilitators


Introduction (10 minutes)

  • Welcome participants and set a collaborative tone.
  • Briefly introduce yourself and the purpose of the workshop.
  • Define the user and scenario: Clearly describe the user persona and the specific scenario you'll be storyboarding. (e.g., "Today, we're focusing on how a first-time customer interacts with our new mobile app.")
  • Explain the value of storyboarding in understanding user experience.
  • Briefly review the elements of a storyboard (e.g., visuals, captions, dialogue).

Brainstorming Instructions (70 minutes)

  • Activity 1: Scenario Breakdown (15 minutes)
    • As a group, break down the user scenario into key steps or stages.
    • Use the Whiteboard to create a simple linear flow of the steps.
    • Encourage participants to consider all potential touchpoints and interactions.

  • Activity 2: Visual Storytelling (40 minutes)
    • Divide participants into smaller groups (if applicable).
    • Assign each group a specific stage or set of steps in the scenario.
    • Instruct them to create a visual representation of their assigned stage(s) using the drawing tools, images, and sticky notes on the whiteboard.
    • Encourage creativity and diverse perspectives in the visuals.

  • Activity 3: Discussion and Refinement (15 minutes)
    • Have each group present their storyboard section to the larger group.
    • Facilitate a discussion to gather feedback, identify pain points, and brainstorm potential improvements.
    • Use the whiteboard to capture key insights and action items.

Adjourn (10 minutes)

  • Summarize the key takeaways from the storyboarding exercise.
  • Highlight areas of the user experience that need attention or improvement.
  • Identify any next steps or follow-up actions.
  • Thank participants for their contributions.

Tips for Facilitators

  • Set the scene: Use images and visual cues on the whiteboard to create an immersive environment.
  • Embrace simplicity: Encourage participants to use simple drawings and visuals to convey their ideas.
  • Focus on the user: Keep the discussion centered on the user's perspective and needs.
  • Capture the narrative: Use captions and dialogue bubbles to add context and detail to the visuals.
  • Facilitate collaboration: Encourage open communication and idea sharing among participants.


This storyboard brainstorm framework will help you guide a creative and insightful session. Remember to adapt the timing and activities based on your specific needs and the complexity of the scenario.

Have fun!