So, a lot of our early work with clients and stakeholders involves creating artifacts that symbolize the system, rather than the literal representation of a prototype or sketch. That includes things like stories, or design the box and other design games. I see this in a lot of the generative methods that Liz Sanders shares with the community.

I’m interested in finding a good word to describe the practice of creating these artifacts, distinct from prototypes. It’s different than codesign or participatory design (which describes *who* is involved, rather than the output of the effort). Artifacting (vs. prototyping) gets at what I’m interested in, but sounds silly. Maybe with enough repetition I’ll come to love it…or if you have a brilliant alternative, let me know in the comments…I’ll keep thinking too.

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