Spark Circles
Check out Nexora’s Case Study to discover more about my human-centered learning design process
- Process: Design thinking process (discover, define, develop, deliver)
- Tools: research and interviews, data analysis and archetypes, HMW-questions, brainstorming, prototype and test, iteration and scaling
- Year: 2025
Context
Remote and distributed teams often lack opportunities for informal conversations and spontaneous exchange. Distance and packed calendars can lead to siloed structures, making cross-team collaboration rare and weakening the broader sense of belonging. How can we create virtual spaces where colleagues can connect naturally despite of their location, exchange ideas, and leave inspired without feeling forced?
Solution
Spark Circles are informal, voluntary lunchtime meetups where colleagues connect in small breakout rooms to exchange insights, discuss challenges, and explore new ideas across locations. These sessions take place every two weeks, are hosted and organized by voluntary facilitators, and moderated by participants.
Results
The test group particularly appreciated the simplicity and brevity of the format, the opportunity to vote on discussion topics, and the chance to learn something new about their colleagues. Balancing value and time investment is key. A ready-to-use toolbox of topics and activities for voluntary hosts helps overcome time constraints and skepticism in cross-location networks.
Takeaways
Talking to people and understanding their mindsets is key to fostering connection and collaboration. True impact happens through co-creation, bringing people together to shape meaningful experiences. To be truly effective, these experiences must be intentionally designed, beyond tangible outcomes, they shape emotional connections that resonate and create lasting engagement.
Disclaimer: This case study is based on a real project but has been adapted for confidentiality. While details have been modified, the methods and key insights remain authentic.
