Challenge:

Microsoft wanted to turn youth technology research into concrete product directions, not just a report, while keeping designers and engineers grounded in how young people actually adopt, use, and reject technology.

Approach:

IC began by researching youth technology preferences, behaviors, friction points, and expectations. Microsoft designers and engineers then used those insights as sprint inputs to develop early concepts. Youth were embedded throughout the week as live feedback loops. At the end of the week, youth served as judges for the pitch session.

Solution:

The strongest youth-validated ideas were advanced within Microsoft teams as inputs for new technology concepts. The process created a practical bridge from research to product ideation, with youth acting as evaluators and strategic co-thinkers rather than passive respondents. Process energized designers and engineers in their tasks.