Understand what exists before designing what comes next.

Look beyond assumptions to understand the people, resources, relationships, programs, and processes already in place.

Identify what is working, what is creating friction, and what may be overlooked.

Identify what is disconnected and what could work together.

Find relationships between people, resources, ideas, and opportunities that may not be obvious at first.

Look for ways to use what already exists differently before assuming something new is needed.

Design the structure that turns possibility into action.

Create the programs, systems, experiences, processes, and tools needed to support meaningful participation and engagement.

Build around the people who will use it and the organization that will sustain it.

Create the capacity to continue the work.

Equip people with the knowledge, resources, tools, and confidence to run, adapt, and improve what has been built.

Create something that can continue beyond the initial design.