14 Course Model 2b: Development – constructing the idea into a concept
Concept Development Exercise
The most important leadership skill: Communications
In this exercise you will learn how to take the idea from thought and turn it into a conceptual prototype. The concept brief is a one-page methodical description of an idea using the inverted pyramid logic model for structure and chunking details into sequential deductive reasoning categories. The concept brief disciplines the mind to break down the detail of an idea into hierarchically aligned categories. This progressive order, when written in third person, creates a system thinking approach that guides the reader step by step to comprehend the innovation as if they were conceiving the concept. Each section of the conceptual prototype interconnects each category of data similar to a chain of interlocking links that structure a holistic illustration of the solution.
When writing thoughts on paper the author is prototyping an idea into an innovation. More importantly – they are creating a tangible product of their logic and judgement reflective of how they analyze situations. Every time a person commits to writing they are also experiencing fail-fast learn-forward revision scenarios: each revision brings new insight that guides and enhances clarity. Always go through multiple revisions BEFORE submitting a final recommendation or analysis. Focus on writing concisely… get to the point. If there is time, use AI to proofread or have someone read it. No long verbose story telling. Make it easy for the reader to notice key details, and what to do.

Directions: Hard Hat
- Describe the headgear device in the picture.
- Fill in the categories below that represent the structure for developing the description into a concept.
- Be concise, no sentences over 18 words, write in 3rd person.
- Describe the mechanics of the device in three sentences.
- Go beyond price… what is the emotional value to the user after receiving the solution fulfilled by the description
| Category | Description | 
|---|---|
| Name: of the idea | |
| Headline: 4 to 8 words similar to a newspaper article. | |
| User: Who will use or buy the solution. | |
| Problem: Be specific. Make sure the focus is on the user. | |
| Solution: The promise that solves the problem. | |
| Description: Describe the device in 3 sentences. What is it + how does it work? | |
| Value: Explained in human emotion terms. | 
