How can you use the Walt Disney Method to plan and execute content production?

1 What is the Walt Disney Method?

The Walt Disney Method is a brainstorming tool that was inspired by the legendary animator and entrepreneur, Walt Disney. He was known for his ability to switch between different roles and mindsets, such as the dreamer, the realist, and the critic. The method mimics these roles and helps you to view your content from different angles, challenge your assumptions, and improve your solutions.

2 How to use the Walt Disney Method?

To use the Walt Disney Method, you need to set up three separate rooms or spaces, each representing one of the roles: the dreamer, the realist, and the critic. You also need to gather your team members, who will take turns to play each role. Here are the steps to follow:

3 Step 1: Dream

In the first room, you and your team will act as the dreamers. This is where you let your imagination run wild and come up with as many ideas as possible for your content. You can use tools like mind maps, sketches, or storyboards to visualize your ideas. Don't worry about the feasibility or the quality of your ideas at this stage. Just focus on generating quantity and diversity.

4 Step 2: Realize

In the second room, you and your team will act as the realists. This is where you select the most promising ideas from the dreamer room and turn them into actionable plans. You can use tools like SWOT analysis, SMART goals, or Gantt charts to evaluate your ideas and define your objectives, resources, and timelines. Make sure you have a clear vision and a realistic strategy for your content.

5 Step 3: Critique

In the third room, you and your team will act as the critics. This is where you test and refine your plans from the realist room and identify any potential flaws or risks. You can use tools like feedback forms, surveys, or prototypes to gather feedback from your target audience, stakeholders, or experts. Be honest and constructive about your content and look for ways to improve it.

6 Step 4: Iterate

After you have completed the three roles, you can repeat the process as many times as you need until you are satisfied with your content. You can also combine the roles or switch them around to get different insights and perspectives. The Walt Disney Method is a flexible and iterative technique that allows you to explore various possibilities and optimize your content.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?