Communicate This & Stick it Here
This exercise challenges participants to enhance their communication skills by collaboratively solving a puzzle. It requires participants to communicate effectively under constraints, mirroring complex communication dynamics in organizations.
How to run it
- 1
Prepare the materials: laminate and cut out puzzle pieces, place each in a separate envelope, and set up the blank puzzle board on a table.
- 2
Distribute the envelopes randomly to participants, instructing them not to open them until the activity starts.
- 3
Explain the rules: each participant can only see and handle their own puzzle piece, no exchanges allowed, and all planning must occur in the designated area.
- 4
Set a 60-minute timer for planning and devising a strategy to assemble the puzzle.
- 5
After planning, initiate the 30-second countdown for placing the pieces into the grid.
- 6
Observe and note team dynamics and communication strategies for a debrief session.
Tips
Facilitators should monitor the group's communication styles and strategies, noting how they adapt to constraints and manage time.
Encourage reflection on language use and leadership roles during the debrief.
Variations
Adapt the puzzle complexity to suit smaller or larger groups by adjusting the number of pieces. For larger groups, consider forming sub-teams to increase interaction and complexity.
Where it fits
Frequently asked questions
When should I use Communicate This & Stick it Here?â–¾
Use Communicate This & Stick it Here when you want to: Improving intra-team communication in large organizations.; Simulating complex problem-solving under time constraints.; Exploring communication barriers in multicultural teams..
How long does Communicate This & Stick it Here take?â–¾
Communicate This & Stick it Here typically takes 60–90 minutes.
How many participants does Communicate This & Stick it Here work for?â–¾
Communicate This & Stick it Here works best for groups of 18 or more.
What materials do I need for Communicate This & Stick it Here?â–¾
To run Communicate This & Stick it Here you will need: Laminated puzzle pieces, Blank puzzle board, 18 envelopes, Countdown timer, Stopwatch.
How difficult is Communicate This & Stick it Here to facilitate?â–¾
Communicate This & Stick it Here is rated advanced — best facilitated by an experienced workshop leader.
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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 Gamestorming.