The Starfish Technique: an example

Kelly SchmutteStanford University10.10.12

What is ‘starfishing’?‘Starfishing’ is a technique used in Behavior Design to brainstorm different possible sequences of events that lead to one specific target behavior.

The key is to identify specific steps in these behavior sequences that will cascade like a domino effect to the desired target outcome.

Brainstorm as many “legs” on your starfish as you can. Once you identify an exciting sequence, now you can start thinking about how to design for those specific behaviors.

Eat a serving of vegetables

one day

See an awesome cooking show that features broccoli and asparagus

Write down recipes from show (or find online)

Buy ingredients at store

Prepare dinner

Get invited to a friend’s house

The friend serves a nice salad and grilled vegetables

Work has a catered lunch for a meeting

A green salad is the main course for the meeting

CEO of your office wants people to be healthier

Admin person is health-minded

Replaces snacks at office with veggie trays and hummus

You get hungry and want a snack

You decide you need to “eat healthier”

Your friend gives you a smoothie book

Find an interesting “green smoothie” recipe and decide to try it

You go out on a date

Your date suggests going to Jamba Juice for a snack

Your date challenges you to take a wheatgrass shot

You want to impress your date

Here’s an example…