This paper explores the potential of Generative Sketchnoting as a visual framework for faster problem framing and leaner high-level concept development. Differentiating traditional sketchnoting from generative sketchnoting. The former is a re-active method of visually capturing spoken content through words and simple shapes. The traditional sketchnoter tends to listen more actively because she must interpret (visualize) what is being said using text, image, and diagrammatic marks. The method forces compression of content and speed of execution. Generative sketchnoting, on the other hand, relies on many of the same strategies and techniques but is generated by the individual or team. There is no external domain expert delivering content through a talk or lecture. The team is ‘generating’ content on- the-fly while simultaneously capturing it. It is a more pro-active form of visualization where individuals or teams talk and think on paper together. Thus, the real power of generative sketchnoting is its ability to transform a discussion into a ‘visualized’ set of conversational trails that can be viewed, reviewed, and revised quickly. This happens because the content and the resulting sketchnote are generated from within. Whether to conduct a meeting on paper, or a quick brainstorming session, generative sketchnoting has a low barrier entry allowing diverse stakeholders to join the visual conversation. Nevertheless such low-fidelity sketches are often viewed with skepticism as to their ultimate worth in a profession that places a high value on ‘classic product sketching’.

This paper argues that generative sketchnoting is a valuable contribution not only because it is ideally suited to address the increasingly complex problems designers face but also because it is a low-stakes introduction to a much deeper and richer approach to the full design sketching spectrum so necessary in design schools. As a result of these claims, the co-authors decided to sketchnote significant portions of the paper as ideas were batted back-and-forth over the past nine months of ongoing explorations conducted both synchronously and asynchronously.