Dichotomy Mapping

Method Overview

Dichotomy mapping is a framework that helps designers to map and evaluate contrasting aspects—“harmful” and “beneficial”—of each of their design features.

Example of the framework for dichotomy mapping by feature, available from the method website.

Getting Started

Materials:  Dichotomy mapping framework, sheets of paper/whiteboard, pens, Post-Its

Participants: Design team 

Steps (from the Design Ethically website):

Using an example provided on the method website, do the following: 

  1. Identify your product and different features to evaluate
  2. Create a 2 column grid, one column titled “harmful” and other titled “beneficial. 
  3. In each row, identify harmful and beneficial aspects for each feature identified in Step 1.
  4. Extend the conversation to identify the same for single as well as a group of users. 

This methods microsite is based off of analysis which is available in a preprint manuscript. Feel free to review our methodology and other details! We welcome your comments and feedback ! Please also use this form if you would like to suggest a method as an addition to the collection!