W³ - What, So What, Now What?
This method helps groups reflect on shared experiences, fostering mutual understanding and coordinated action. It encourages participation and insightful dialogue while minimizing conflict.
How to run it
- 1
Begin by inviting participants to share observations from a recent experience using the prompt: 'WHAT? What happened? What did you notice?'
- 2
Collect and document all responses to ensure everyone's voice is heard.
- 3
Next, shift to 'SO WHAT? Why is this important? What patterns or conclusions can we draw from these observations?' Facilitate a discussion to identify key insights.
- 4
Finally, conclude with 'NOW WHAT? What actions should we take moving forward?' Encourage the group to outline actionable steps.
Tips
Encourage open dialogue to ensure all voices are heard and valued.
Use a talking object to manage speaking turns, if needed.
Keep the conversation focused on observations and insights, avoiding personal opinions.
Variations
You can adapt the method to a specific theme or project relevant to the group’s focus. For instance, adjust the questions to suit the context of a team project reflection.
Where it fits
Related methods
Plan your next workshop with AI
Workshop Weaver helps you combine methods like W³ - What, So What, Now What? into a complete, timed agenda in minutes.
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 SessionLab. Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.