A visual system for better decisions
The SWARM Grid is a visual framework that helps founders and nonlinear thinkers map their work, uncover gaps, and decide where to focus for the greatest impact. It turns complexity into clarity so you can move forward with confidence.
Why use the Grid?
- Clarity fast: See where your product is strong, and where it’s overloaded.
- Founder-friendly: A single view to guide decisions without getting lost in noise.
- Team-ready: Easy to share, align, and spark focused discussion.
- Modular: Works for early sketches or live products, no matter the stage.
Two Ways to Use the Grid
Reference Grid (PDF)
- A printable, single-page overview.
- Work through problems directly on the page.
- Great for solo reflection, quick sessions, or when you want something you can mark up by hand.
Interactive Playbook (in FigJam)
- A guided, step-by-step version of the Grid.
- Built for deeper dives and team collaboration.
- Prompts walk you through each SWARM phase, helping you move from raw idea to real outcome.
Both formats keep you in the rhythm of SWARM. One is lighter and tactile, the other more structured and collaborative.
Refined through years of design work with founders and startups.
So What Is SWARM?
SWARM is a five-phase framework that helps founders cut through the noise, turn raw ideas into clear outcomes, and keep momentum without losing vision.
Here’s the core loop:
SWARM = Spot → Weigh → Arrange → Refine → Make
Each phase plays a role, but it’s not a rigid sequence. You can loop, remix, or jump between phases depending on what your work or team needs.
- Spot: Notice what’s showing up. Ideas, patterns, sparks. Stay curious.
- Weigh: Pause and reflect. What’s worth pursuing? What feels alive?
- Arrange: Group and shape. Find patterns. Let structure begin to emerge naturally.
- Refine: Focus on the core. Keep what resonates, evolve what wants to grow.
- Make: Act on your ideas. Build, shape, and release when ready.
SWARM is lightweight by design. It’s a rhythm more than a rulebook. It gives founders a way to move faster with less chaos, without losing the spark that makes their product unique.