How to Have Tough Conversations that Advance Inclusive Design by ‍Lydia Hooper (Agile Six)

In order for decisions to be made that align with values for inclusivity and equity, researchers and designers often need to navigate complex conversations and negotiations, but we are often not taught the skills needed to do this effectively. These skills are important, because when conversations are mishandled, it can lead to the perpetuation of or an increase in harm, ruptures in trust, and decreases in team engagement and cohesion. This is even more likely when team members represent different social locations and when they are working through issues of inclusion and equity. Alternatively, when conversations expose different beliefs, ideas, or interests, and this conflict consciously cared for, it can lead to better work environments, increased innovation, and products that meet the needs of diverse users.

In this workshop, hybrid designer Lydia Hooper will explain these dynamics and offer practices that will help attendees recognize more clearly the choices they have in these situations and feel better equipped to make the choices that centre inclusivity and equity. These practices include making mental pivots, evaluating risks and rewards, identifying values-based actions, and communicating with greater clarity and impact. By learning these skills, attendees will have greater capacity to meaningfully contribute to teams making decisions that allow for shared power and responsibility.