How-Now-Wow Matrix
Idea evaluation by originality and feasibility.
PURPOSE
After a brainstorming session, teams often face a long list of ideas without knowing which to implement first. The How-Now-Wow Matrix evaluates ideas simultaneously by originality and feasibility. This quickly distinguishes easily implementable innovations (Wow) from difficult-to-implement visions (How) and obvious standard solutions (Now).
HOW TO USE
Ideas are positioned on a 2x2 matrix where the x-axis represents feasibility and the y-axis represents originality. Ideas in the Wow quadrant (high originality, easy to implement) are prioritized. Now ideas (easy to implement, low originality) are quick wins, and How ideas (original, hard to implement) require further development.
WHAT IT IS
The How-Now-Wow Matrix is a visual idea evaluation tool that classifies ideas into three categories. How ideas are innovative but hard to implement, Now ideas are easy to implement but not very original, and Wow ideas combine originality with good feasibility. The tool is frequently used following brainstorming sessions in innovation workshops.
EXAMPLE
Example: After a Design Thinking workshop, your innovation team has 25 ideas for a new customer service. With the How-Now-Wow Matrix, you sort them: 'FAQ chatbot' is Now (familiar, easy to implement), 'AR-based product help' is How (innovative but hard to implement), and 'personalized video tutorials' is Wow (innovative and feasible). You start with the Wow ideas.