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planningIntermediate

Build The Checklist

Build The Checklist is a structured method for teams to create a comprehensive and prioritized list of tasks. This helps ensure complex tasks are manageable and well-organized, surfacing differing perspectives and priorities within the team.

Duration
1h
Group size
3–10 people
Materials
sticky notes, markers, large paper or whiteboard

How to run it

  1. 1

    Introduce the topic: Define what the checklist will cover, like 'Dealing with an Angry Customer'.

  2. 2

    Brainstorm: Have participants write down tasks on sticky notes that are concrete and measurable.

  3. 3

    Organize: Use affinity mapping to group similar tasks and remove duplicates.

  4. 4

    Sequence: Arrange tasks in order of operation or by priority on a large paper or whiteboard.

  5. 5

    Finalize: Discuss and agree on the final order, removing less important tasks if necessary.

  6. 6

    Document: Capture the completed checklist and share it with others for feedback and improvement.

Tips

  • Encourage participants to be specific with task descriptions to avoid ambiguity.

  • Facilitate open discussion to ensure all viewpoints are considered, and use visuals to help participants engage with the process.

Variations

Consider using digital collaboration tools for remote teams to create and organize the checklist. Alternatively, focus on creating checklists for specific scenarios to deepen understanding.

Where it fits

Mapping out a new project workflowEstablishing a customer service protocolPreparing for a product launch

Frequently asked questions

When should I use Build The Checklist?â–¾

Use Build The Checklist when you want to: Mapping out a new project workflow; Establishing a customer service protocol; Preparing for a product launch.

How long does Build The Checklist take?â–¾

Build The Checklist typically takes 60 minutes.

How many participants does Build The Checklist work for?â–¾

Build The Checklist works best for groups of 3–10 participants.

What materials do I need for Build The Checklist?â–¾

To run Build The Checklist you will need: sticky notes, markers, large paper or whiteboard.

How difficult is Build The Checklist to facilitate?â–¾

Build The Checklist is rated intermediate — some facilitation experience is helpful.

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Method descriptions on Workshop Weaver are original content written by our team, based on established facilitation practices. This method was inspired by work from Gamestorming.

Build The Checklist — Facilitation Method | Workshop Weaver