INTRODUCTION:
Assumptions: Refers to a pre-existing notion which is not based on any factual/empirical evidence.
There were two main aspects dealt with during this Think lab session, the two aspects being; assumptions and how to challenge them.
WARM-UP ACTIVITY:
For the warm-up, we started with putting forward assumptions about tea. This led to the creation of a long list which included assumptions like; morning drink, easily accessible, affordable etc.
This was followed by attempts to understand how to challenge basic assumptions by altering certain aspects about them. This was explained using the example of Chaayos.
A very common assumption about tea is that it cannot be delivered to homes. This assumption was challenged by Chayoos who brought in a new concept of homedelivery of tea.
Other similar examples of challenging basic assumptions were shown using the South Indian dish, dosa.
MAIN ACTIVITY:
During the main activity, we were assigned to prepare a list of assumptions of a particular dish. From the list produced we had to then choose a particular assumption and challenge it. Our group received pasta as the dish.
We made a list of assumptions like warmth, comforting, savoury, Italian etc.
These assumptions were presented in the form of a mind map in the Miro board.
After completing this task we moved forward to the next task where we had to pick one assumption from the list and alter/modify it. For this task we decided to challenge the assumption that pasta involves the use of cutlery. We then decide to convert the traditional pasta into a sandwich form. We did this by placing a less saucier version of pasta between two slices of garlic bread.
FINAL REFLECTION:
A lot of discoveries and solutions can be made by simply challenging the basic assumptions of any object. This technique can especially help a designer come up with novel solutions to any problem.
From the feedbacks received I could understand that our group did not have a proper clarity regarding the assumption we chose to challenge.
There was also problem regarding ways to challenge it.
Few of the things that I wish my group would have done are as follows:
We should have clarified these doubts before presenting.
We should have tried to increase the speed in which we worked in order to give more time for thinking and discussing.
One of the things that I liked about others works were that they had taken assumptions that were easier to challenge. For example, the group which received panipuri decided to introduce a DIY kit so that people can easily prepare it at home instead of worrying about the cleanliness etc.
Learning Mantra: Never stop at the basic assumption. Try challenging them further.
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