Cover Story

Cover Story is a serious game that allows teams to visualise the success of a project by creating a fictional magazine cover. This game stimulates creativity and fosters collaboration, while helping to clarify objectives and a shared vision. By projecting into the future, participants identify the key elements of their project's success.

Walkthrough

1. 1

   Introduction

   10 min

   The facilitator introduces the game by explaining its objective: 'We will imagine that our project has been a resounding success and is on the cover of a magazine. Your task is to create this cover.' They specify that this exercise aims to clarify the vision and objectives of the project while stimulating creativity.

   Tip — Use an example of an existing magazine cover to inspire participants.

2. 2

   Team Formation

   5 min

   Ask participants to form small teams of 4 to 6 people. Each team will represent a fictional editorial committee responsible for designing the magazine cover. Encourage teams to mix skills and perspectives.

   Tip — Ensure that each team has a mix of roles and skills to enrich discussions.

3. 3

   Cover Creation

   30 min

   Each team works on designing their magazine cover. They must include a catchy title, a main image, and three to five feature articles that describe the project's successes. 'Imagine you are in 2025, and your project is a success. What do you see on this cover?'

   Tip — Provide physical magazines or printed templates to help visualise the format.

4. 4

   Cover Presentation

   15 min

   Each team presents their cover to the other participants. Encourage them to explain their choice of titles and images. 'What do these elements say about the success of our project?' This step allows teams to share their vision and receive feedback.

   Tip — Time the presentations to ensure each team has the same amount of time.

5. 5

   Discussion and Synthesis

   15 min

   Facilitate a group discussion on the common themes and differences between the covers. 'What elements appear frequently? What does this tell us about our shared vision?' Note key points on a board to synthesise the collective vision.

   Tip — Use post-its to capture the main ideas shared during the discussion.

6. 6

   Conclusion

   5 min

   Conclude the workshop by thanking participants for their creativity and engagement. Remind them that this exercise is a starting point for clarifying and aligning project objectives. 'Let’s use this shared vision to guide our next steps.'

   Tip — Take a photo of the covers and notes to share with the team later.

Variants

• Use digital tools to create the cover, such as Canva or PowerPoint.
• Conduct this exercise in a competitive mode, where each team votes for the most inspiring cover.
• Add a step where teams must include fictional testimonials from clients or users.