Entry Points For Design For Policy: Exploring A Framework With The Theory Of Change

Design for policy is an emerging field that, in some contexts, still fights for being acknowledged (Kimbell et al., 2023; Mortati, 2019). In this scenario, we propose a framework of three “entry points” for design for policy: (i) transferring design knowledge to non-designers, (ii) fostering co-creation among policy actors, and (iii) recognizing non-designer-led policy processes. In parallel, the Theory of Change (TOC) (Anderson, 2005) has gained attention as a tool in design for policy (Cole, 2022; Compton et al., 2019; La 27e Région, 2024). We propose a 90-minute activity to align the TOC with the authors' framework to explore how TOC can help pursue the conditions suggested by the three entry points to design for policy. Participants will be divided into groups, role-playing the following actors: (i) designers, (ii) policymakers, and (iii) policy takers and other stakeholders. The three groups will be guided to use the TOC collaboratively within a given policy scenario. They will engage in co-constructing a TOC, facilitated by a 3D version of the instrument, built following the LEGO® Serious Play® method.