PHASE 1 – DISCOVER
Stage 4: Exploration
In this stage you will start exploring the data and look at the similarities and differences to the stakeholder perspectives.
Go to Stage 4 Content
Co.Design4All
5 Stages of Discover
The DISCOVER Phase has 5 stages and 32 tools
Stage 1
PRE PLANNING
This stage includes undertaking an initial planning process to understand the resources, governance and budget needs of the project.
4
Tools
Stage 2
CURRENT STATE
This stage includes an assessment of the current state, including data exploration, and understanding the key players in the context of the place based response.
2
Tools
Stage 3
ENGAGEMENT
Engagement will involve conversations with the key stakeholders identified in current state. This will allow unpacking and exploring the key issues and ideas/solutions. This will inform who should be involved in the design phase.
14
Tools
Stage 4
EXPLORATION
Exploration includes examining what solutions have been used in this and similar contexts. It also includes expanding on any ideas identified during this stage and looking at local context for implementation clues.
8
Tools
Stage 5
PLANNING
Planning includes detailing the where, when, who and how stakeholders should be involved in the co-design process. This includes planning for reimbursement of the time of participants as needed.
4
Tools
Gate 1 – REFLECT & PLAN
The reflect and plan component of the framework has been designed to provide a point to review what has been achieved, then based on this review process, plan for the next stage of implementing the toolkit. There are a set of outcomes or questions that should be considered at each of these points.
Reflect & Plan
DISCOVER
Stage 4 – Exploration
Overview
Exploration includes examining which solutions have been used in similar contexts. This includes expanding on any ideas identified in this stage.
Key Activities
- This activity involves undertaking research on potential solutions to the identified challenge. Desktop research will generally identify potential solutions that may have been applied in a similar context.
- This stage will also involve expanding on the solutions identified by stakeholders and testing their application in the context of the challenge.
- Examine solutions that are on the edge as well; consider the technological, behavioral and cultural issues.
- Through the iterative process of Stage 1 you may find you need to interview additional experts or stakeholders to explore potential solutions and the situational context for consideration in the design process.
- Develop a purpose statement based on your knowledge of the issue to date. Consider the development of a set of criteria that you might use later in the selection process for your options. This will help to collect the right data from this assessment and prevent jumping into solution mode too early.
STAGE 4 – eXPLORATION
Defining Problem Complexity
Defining Problem Complexity
Tool Reference # 1D0401
This tool can be used to assess the level of complexity of the issue, this could be used over the course of the process to see if any elements become clearer.
WHAT
This tool is applied at Stage 1 during exploration. It is used to better articulate the nature of the problem and can help to inform the analysis required.
WHO
This is used by the project team. The assessment is best completed as a team to unpack the challenge as it is currently understood and help identify stakeholders and risks.
HOW LONG
1 hour
Stage 4 – Defining Problem Complexity
This tool is helpful in identifying and understanding the complexities of challenges.
You need to purchase subscription.
STAGE 4 – eXPLORATION
Framework For Data Collection
Framework For Data Collection
Tool Reference # 1D0402
This tool can help you to think about the process you take to data collection. Depending upon the datasets you have access to and the skills on hand, this can be quite intensive as different datasets might need to be merged.
WHAT
This tool is applied at Stage 1 during exploration. This is where you articulate the analysis that is required to gather insights to the challenge and potential solutions.
WHO
This is used by the project team and can be completed by a team member and reviewed by others for input.
HOW LONG
2-3 days
Stage 4 – Framework For Data Collection
This tool is valuable for assisting in how data should be collected throughout the project.
You need to purchase subscription.
STAGE 4 – eXPLORATION
Persona Development
Persona Development
Tool Reference # 1D0403
This tool will help in articulating and defining persona/s of people who are stakeholders to better understand and unpack the issues and needs.
WHAT
This tool is applied in Stage 1 during exploration. This will assist to better understand the motivations and issues from the perspective of stakeholders.
WHO
This is used by the project team. Each team member could take on the persona of a stakeholder and then be validated by other team members.
HOW LONG
2 hour workshop style
Stage 4 – Persona Development
This tool aids in defining stakeholder personas to better understand their issues and needs.
You need to purchase subscription.
STAGE 4 – eXPLORATION
User Experience
User Experience
Tool Reference # 1D0404
This tool can help to map the user experience and understand the nature of the experience and why it impacts their satisfaction.
WHAT
This tool is applied in Stage 1 during exploration. This will assist with better understanding the impact the current state has on the user, and key pain points.
WHO
This is used by the project team; each team member could take on the persona of a stakeholder and then be validated by other team members
HOW LONG
2 hour workshop style
Stage 4 – User Experience
This is a helpful tool to map our the user experience.
You need to purchase subscription.
STAGE 4 – eXPLORATION
Community Mission Statement
Community Mission Statement
Tool Reference # 1D0405
This tool can help to develop a community mission statement. This is a formal summary that outlines why your community/committee exists and the goals you want to achieve. It should be the central pillar of the community—you should turn to it as a guideline for all actions
WHAT
This tool can be used to align the committee on the mission and goals of the project and involve other community members to get buy in to the process
WHO
This is used by the committee to articulate their collective “WHY”.
HOW LONG
2 hour workshop style to start with time afterwards to refine.
Stage 4 – Community Mission Statement
This tool helps to note down the goals of the project within the specific community setting.
You need to purchase subscription.
STAGE 4 – eXPLORATION
Options Analysis Criteria
Options Analysis Criteria
Tool Reference # 1D0406
This tool will help to define the criteria you can use for assessing any options that emerge. As you start on the journey of the co-design process it is important to define early the criteria that might be used to determine your option selection at the end of the process. The reason for this is that it will guide the information or data you need to collect to inform the assessment at the end.
WHAT
This tool is used early on to determine how options and solutions will be assessed at the end of the project. These could change overtime but will be a good guide to start with.
WHO
This is used by the project team.
HOW LONG
1 hour and a week of confirming and refining with others
Stage 4 – Options Analysis Criteria
This tool will aid in the mapping and analysis of options that arises during the project.
You need to purchase subscription.
STAGE 4 – eXPLORATION
Ten Roles Of Impact At Scale
Ten Roles Of Impact At Scale
Tool Reference # 1D0407
This tool developed by SVA helps to define roles of each player I system and can be used to better understand how the system is functioning.
WHAT
The tool assigns roles, clarifies responsibilities, and fosters collaboration. It helps participants focus on systemic impact, ensures inclusivity by engaging diverse stakeholders, and encourages consideration of resources and sustainability. It also guides iteration, ensuring solutions are tested and refined, supporting innovative, inclusive, scalable, and impactful co-design outcomes.
WHO
Project team and other stakeholders involved in delivery of the co design session/s
HOW LONG
30 – 60 minutes
Stage 4 – Ten Roles Of Impact At Scale
This tool is used ro provide an overview of the systemic impact of the project.
You need to purchase subscription.
STAGE 4 – eXPLORATION
Theory of Constraints (TOC)
Theory of Constraints (TOC)
Tool Reference # 1D0408
This tool can help to identify and eliminate constraints n the system that may be bottle necks to progress or performance
WHAT
A methodology for identifying the primary constraint that hinders progress towards a goal, and then systematically improving it until it no longer impedes performance. This process is repeated to address subsequent constraints and enhance overall efficiency.
WHO
Project team and other stakeholders involved in delivery of the co design session/s
HOW LONG
30 – 60 Minutes
Stage 4 – Theory of Constraints (TOC)
The tool is used to identify the various constraints of the project as well as explore how to overcome them.
You need to purchase subscription.
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Support & Guidance
Exploring the data and information can be fun but it can also be overwhelming. If you are having issues wading through the data, contact us for help.
CO.DESIGN4ALL
Get in Touch With Us
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CASE STUDY
“Five To Thrive”
Everyone would agree that giving kids the best start in life is critical. Most of us know that before a child turns seven, many aspects of who they will become have been established.
When a group of local health, education and social care providers decided to gather in Inala, one of Queensland’s most disadvantaged regions, the enthusiasm was high. The common language around how to make a difference was not. Bringing the group together to ultimately produce the Five to Thrive approach took many meetings. Common understanding and a shared frame of reference needed to be developed about how to prepare kids for a good start at school.
Inala Primary Care was the only general practice involved. Clarifying the role of general practice, the constraints on our team and the practicalities of asking general practitioners to do more took some effort. We worked with the meeting organisers to get the right people involved, to have videos of stimulating ideas shown and to manage the sometimes outspoken behaviour of attendees.
It all comes down to having lots of tools in your back pocket so that you can harness the energy of others to get a good result.
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TESTIMONIALS
What our clients have to say
Tracey Silvester
Executive Officer
Engaging, Successful, Credible
I have been witness to Tracey Johnson’s knowledge of the health care system and her exceptional group facilitation skills. She is a master at understanding the complexities in which health services operate; an understanding that is reflected in the quality of the co-design tools and resources that have been developed. Her ability to clearly communicate complex concepts and engage diverse audiences ensures the success and credibility of her work. I am confident that these attributes and Tracey’s commitment to making a difference will make the website a valuable resource for all users.
McGrath ‘Model of Care’ project
Project Participant A
Best Co-design Process
This has been the best co-design process I have even participated in……ACTUAL co-design.
Meredith Cummins
CEO Neuroendocrine Cancer Australia
Wonderful Co-design Workshop
Wonderful to be involved in this co-design workshop to ensure the model of care for all cancers benefits all cancers.
McGrath ‘Model of Care’ project
Project Participant B
Fantastic Co-design Workshop
Fantastic to have been part of the codesign workshop with McGrath Foundation and Natasha Doherty.
Stacey Allerton
Patient Advocate
Compassionate Co-Design
Thank you to Natasha Doherty for a kind and compassionate session co-designing the McGrath Foundation model of nursing care for all cancers!
Cathy Baynie
Practice Consultant & Past President AAPM
Highly Recommend Co.Design4All
I highly recommend this resource as the necessary tool that will support and foster the needs of all stakeholders in the co-design process. Tracey and Nat have an in depth and lived understanding of what is required for a successful outcome. Their skills in working with groups and inspiring others are second to none.
Cathy Baynie, Registered Nurse. Practice Consultant & Past President AAPM (Australian Assoc of Practice Managers) Manager Advocacy and Health Workforce
Michele Smith
WNSWPHN
Excellent Co-Design – Resounding Success
The “Excellent Co-Design” training by Tracey Johnson and Natasha Doherty has been a resounding success. It not only enriched the skill set of the WNSW PHN Primary Care team but also instilled a culture of collaboration and innovation that will propel the PHN’s mission to improve primary health outcomes.
Freddy Ortega
WNSW PHN Primary Care Team
Transformative, Comprehensive Training
The “Excellent Co-Design” training, expertly delivered by Tracey Johnson and Natasha Doherty, has been transformative for the WNSW PHN Primary Care Team. This comprehensive training has equipped the team with vital skills in community engagement, service innovation, and program implementation—key components for addressing complex primary care challenges, especially in rural and remote contexts
Tracey Silvester
Executive Officer ACHSM
Quality Tools & Resources
Tracey Johnson is a master at understanding the complexities in which health services operate, an understanding that is reflected in the quality of the codesign tools and resources that have been developed. I am confident that these attributes and Tracey’s commitment to making a difference will make the Co.Design4All website a valuable resource for all users.
insights and thought leadership
Our Latest Articles & Blogs
We are passionate about Co.Design4All and the difference it makes to projects and community initiatives to facilitate and enable successful and better outcomes for ALL. We will share our knowledge, insights, and expertise in articles and blogs to help you successfully adopt and implement co-design principles.
Fix the Ride, Not the Rider: Why Systems Change Starts at the Periphery
Team Co.Design4All
The most useful insights about a broken system almost always come from the people it serves least well. Learn why fixing the ride, not the rider, is where real systems change begins, and how co-design puts the right voices at the centre of that process.
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Character or Credit? Leadership in an age of self
Team Co.Design4All
In a culture that rewards self-promotion over self-mastery, what does it actually take to lead meaningful change? Drawing on the work of David Brooks, Angela Duckworth, Jonathan Haidt and Robert Greenleaf, this article explores why character is the foundation of effective leadership in healthcare and community change work, and why humility may be the most important capability that change leaders still need to develop.
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Kombi, not Chaos: Why your team isn’t doing what you asked — and what to do about it
Team Co.Design4All
Why aren’t your team following the procedure you agreed on? The COM-B model — Capability, Opportunity, Motivation — offers a practical diagnostic framework for healthcare and organisational leaders. Pair it with co-design and you have both the diagnosis and the method to fix it.
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Ask, Don’t Tell: The quiet discipline of listening to learn
Team Co.Design4All
In change work, the people who listen hardest tend to get the furthest. Drawing on Schein’s humble inquiry and Scharmer’s four levels of listening, this article explores why asking — not telling — is the foundational discipline of genuine co-design, and how to practise it in healthcare and community settings.
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Head, Heart, Hip Pocket: How to Pitch Change so it Actually Lands
Team Co.Design4All
A great idea is not enough. Winning funding, permission and momentum requires a pitch that speaks to the rational, emotional and financial realities of your audience — all three, in the right order. The Head, Heart, Hip Pocket framework is a battle-tested structure for change-makers in healthcare and beyond, grounded in decades of co-design practice and the best of behavioural science.
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When Co-Design Becomes a PR Exercise: Learning from Australia’s Live Export Debacle
Team Co.Design4All
Co-Design vs Performative Consultation Co-design has become the darling of public policy. Governments and organisations everywhere trumpet their commitment to collaborative decision-making, promising to work alongside affected communities to shape policies that impact them. But what happens when co-design is deployed not as a genuine collaborative process, but as window dressing for decisions already made? …
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The Vanishing Village: What we lost when we stopped joining things — and why co-design may be how we get it back
Team Co.Design4All
Social capital has been quietly collapsing across Australia for fifty years. Volunteering is at an all-time low, loneliness now carries health risks equivalent to smoking fifteen cigarettes a day, and trust in government continues to fall. Drawing on research from Robert Putnam, Andrew Leigh, Hugh Mackay, and Julianne Holt-Lunstad, this article examines what we have lost, why it matters for the health and wellbeing of Australian communities, and why genuine co-design may be the most practical path toward rebuilding the social fabric we have allowed to unravel.
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Gender Equity, Kindness, and the Screen Between Us
Team Co.Design4All
Half a century of equity reform has produced real gains — and real resistance. From the gender pay gap to the rise of the manosphere, this article examines where Australia stands on gender equality, what the evidence tells us about coercive control and online radicalisation, and why structured co-design at community level may be one of our most practical tools for rebuilding common ground.
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