Typology Development
A structured consensus process where participants independently generate ideas on Post-it notes, rotate their pads to build on each other's thinking, then collaboratively cluster and label the results into a shared typology. Useful for reaching consensus on categories, components, or problem frameworks.
How to run it
- 1
Give each participant a large Post-it pad. Ask them to record as many ideas, solutions, problems, or strategies as possible in 3 minutes — one idea per note.
- 2
Ask each participant to pass their pad to the person on their left. They review the received notes and add new ideas for 3 more minutes.
- 3
Repeat rotation until every pad has gone through all participants and returned to its original owner.
- 4
Facilitator posts all notes on a large whiteboard. Participants identify and remove duplicates by stacking redundant notes on top of each other.
- 5
Once duplicates are removed, participants physically cluster the remaining notes into groups of conceptually similar items.
- 6
Facilitate a discussion to agree on a label for each cluster.
- 7
Photograph or transcribe the final typology for the record.
Tips
Keep the 3-minute timer strict — it prevents overthinking.
Don't force consensus on clusters; if a note could fit two clusters, create a connecting arrow or place it in between.
This method works well after a divergent brainstorm to structure the outputs.
Variations
Run digitally using Miro or Mural with digital sticky notes. The rotation step becomes passing a board link with editing rights.
Where it fits
Related methods
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Try it freeMethod descriptions on Workshop Weaver are original content written by our team, based on established facilitation practices. This method was inspired by work from University of Hawaii.