Experiment Canvas (UNDP)
Canvas for planning experiments with hypotheses, metrics, risks, and learning goals.
PURPOSE
The Experiment Canvas from UNDP helps teams systematically plan experiments in innovation and change projects rather than conducting them ad hoc. It ensures that experiments have clear hypotheses, metrics, and learning goals so that results are actionable. The tool is particularly valuable in contexts with high uncertainty where traditional planning approaches reach their limits.
HOW TO USE
For each planned experiment, a canvas is filled out. First, the hypothesis to be tested is clearly formulated and expected results described. Then metrics are defined against which success is measured, and risks and their mitigation are planned. After conducting the experiment, learning goals are evaluated and decisions for further action are derived.
WHAT IT IS
The Experiment Canvas is a planning tool developed by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for structured experimentation. It contains fields for hypotheses, expected results, metrics, risks, required resources, and learning goals. The canvas connects Lean Startup elements with the requirements of complex development and innovation projects.
EXAMPLE
Example: You are testing in a development project in Kenya whether mobile-payment-based microcredits help smallholder farmers. With the Experiment Canvas (UNDP), you formulate a clear hypothesis, define success metrics (repayment rate, crop yield increase), identify risks, and determine what you want to learn in eight weeks.