By now you know why peer review matters, and why it’s important to be a better critic and accept constructive criticism. But to learn is to do, so let’s test your improved critiquing skills before really putting them to use.
Find two projects (start-ups, specific work within a company, etc) that relate to your final project and answer the questions below. Use the Curated Library or any online resource to find information on the projects you want to critique.
Describe
- What was your first thought when you reviewed the project?
- Who is or what will be impacted by the project or product?
- What is the point of the project? What is its goal?
Analyze
- What is the name of the project? Is the brand clear?
- How is the project marketed or pitched? Is the information provided to describe it clear? Is it accurate and reflective of the project’s activities?
- In your opinion, who is the project’s target audience or consumer?
- Were stakeholders properly consulted?
- Is the project addressing a gap in the market or is it improving on an existing product or service?
- Is the project well thought through? Is there proof of concept? Is it backed by market research? Financial data?
- Is the project scalable? Is there room for growth?
- Is the project missing any important elements? Are there laws, treaties or other legal consequences that need to be addressed by the project?
Interpret
- Why do you think the project exists? Is it responding to demand or trying to create demand?
- What is the purpose of the project? To offer a solution? To incent an action? To fix a problem?
- What message does the project send to the public?
- Is the project effective and impactful?
- Is there anything confusing that needs clarification?
Evaluate
- Is the project a good idea? Is it innovative?
- What do you like the most about it? What do you dislike?
- How has the project been received? By consumers? By media? Is there or will there be any pockets of opposition in the community?
- Can you think of any improvements that would make this project more effective?
- Why do you think the project is successful/unsuccessful?
- What might you have done differently if given the opportunity to lead the project?
Now compare and contrast your reviews and determine which project is more successful. Point out what specific elements led you to this decision and remember to keep these ideas in mind as you work on your final project.