How Might We Template

Understanding the How Might We Template

The how might we template transforms complex design challenges into actionable questions. It's a simple framework that helps teams reframe problems as opportunities during the ideation phase. This technique originated from design thinking and has become essential for website development teams looking to solve user experience issues effectively.

Using a how might we statement template shifts your focus from what's wrong to what's possible. Instead of saying "Users can't find the checkout button," you'd ask "How might we make the checkout process more visible and intuitive?"

Why This Framework Works for Web Design

The how might we statement creates psychological safety for brainstorming. Your team can propose wild ideas without judgment because you're exploring possibilities, not defending solutions.

For website projects, this approach helps bridge the gap between user pain points and design solutions. When analytics show high bounce rates on your pricing page, the question becomes: "How might we present pricing information that builds trust and clarity?"

Running an Effective How Might We Workshop

A how might we workshop typically takes 45-90 minutes. Start by reviewing user research, customer feedback, or analytics data from your website.

Identify specific problems, then convert each into a question format. Keep your team between 4-8 people for the best results. Too many voices create chaos, too few limit perspective.

• Set clear ground rules: All ideas are valid during the initial phase
• Use sticky notes or digital boards: One idea per note keeps things organized
• Time-box each round: Five minutes per problem prevents overthinking
• Group similar themes: You'll notice patterns in how people frame questions

Creating Your How Might We Statements Template

A good how might we statements template includes three components: the challenge, the user, and the desired outcome. Structure matters because vague questions lead to vague solutions.

Here's a practical how might we example for an e-commerce site: "How might we help first-time visitors understand our product categories within three seconds?" This question is specific, measurable, and user-focused.

Avoid questions that are too broad like "How might we improve the website?" or too narrow like "How might we change the button color to blue?" Find the middle ground where creativity meets practicality.

Applying This to Real Website Projects

Your development team can use this template at multiple project stages. During discovery, it helps define features. During testing, it addresses usability issues. During optimization, it guides A/B test hypotheses.

The template works because it removes blame and focuses on progress. When a feature fails, you're not pointing fingers. You're asking: "How might we learn from this data to serve users better?" That mindset difference changes everything about how your team approaches website development challenges.