Participants:

2-10

11-25

25+

Prep Time:

Time to run:

1-3 hours

Schematic diagramming template

Use this framework to collaborate on how an idea will work as a system

Start from this template

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Use this template from the LUMA System™ to collaborate on how an idea will work as a functional system. Schematic diagramming can be used in nearly any project, to guide your team in thinking holistically about an idea to ensure that it's structurally sound.

A schematic diagram shows the underlying architecture of your concept. Schematic diagrams should be skeletal representations with minimal use of color, since the goal is to understand the infrastructure and not to design the look and feel of your concept at this stage.

Running a collaborative schematic diagramming session helps you build consensus around structure, identify and address functional details, and establish a baseline for future designs.

The schematic diagramming template helps you:

Identify and outline the initial concept that will precipitate your workflow
Brainstorm and identify workflow steps and decision stages
Gather any additional notes or comments that may affect each step or stage
Visualize your workflow from beginning to end and establish a baseline for future iterations

How to use the schematic diagramming template

To use the Mural schematic diagramming template, follow the below steps with your team.

Step 1: Identify the initial concept

The first stage is to make sure that you provide an overview of the initial concept that will form the basis of the workflow. The purpose of the exercise is to allow your team to think holistically about this central topic.

Step 2: Brainstorm steps and identify decision points

Once you’ve defined your central topic, it’s time to brainstorm and discover what the various steps and decisions would be to bring your idea to fruition.

Step 3: Refine your feedback into a functional system

Once you’ve brainstormed and gathered as much feedback for steps and stages, it’s time to identify any themes or groups that may need further analysis or editing to avoid duplication and settle on an efficient and streamlined flow.

Tips for running a schematic diagramming template workshop

To run a successful and engaging schematic diagramming template workshop, you should:

Clearly define the central idea and assign any pre-work before your session to ensure that everyone has the same context
Use tools like private mode to avoid groupthink, timer to keep things on schedule, and anonymous voting to help determine the best ideas and next steps
Color code your steps and decisions to give everyone a quick visual reference for inflection points, creating a clear, holistic view for all stakeholders

How to create a Schematic diagramming template

Start from blank template

View example template

Mural makes it easy to collaboratively create schematic diagrams

With Mural’s intuitive features and tools, your team can get engaged and contribute while at the same time developing a shared understanding of the core concept and workflow.

Mapping and diagramming

Build quick and easy visualizations of flows, maps, processes, hierarchies, journeys, and more.

Sticky notes & text

Add ideas, action items, and more as a sticky note or text box — then change the colors and cluster to identify patterns and new solutions.

Real-time collaboration

Add more productivity and engagement to meetings and calls with features to guide collaboration.

Private mode

Avoid groupthink and get authentic feedback by allowing collaborators to add content privately.

Anonymous voting

Gain consensus and reach alignment quickly, either in real time or asynchronously.

Timer

Keep collaboration moving forward with a timer to structure and time-box activities.