Liberating Structures String
A Liberating Structures String is a purposefully designed sequence of two or more Liberating Structures methods, where the output of each step feeds into the next. Rather than using a single method, the String creates a coherent learning and action journey. The sequencing is a design art: each method prepares the psychological and informational ground for what follows.
How to run it
- 1
Define your purpose: what do you want the group to achieve by the end of the session?
- 2
Choose a string of 2–5 LS methods whose outputs chain naturally. Example: '1-2-4-All' → 'Wicked Questions' → 'TRIZ' → 'What, So What, Now What'.
- 3
Design the transitions: how does the output of each step become the input for the next?
- 4
Run the string in sequence, keeping transitions crisp and clear.
- 5
Harvest insights and commitments at the end of the string.
- 6
Debrief the process itself: what did participants notice about how the sequence shaped their thinking?
Tips
The most common beginner mistake is choosing methods that are individually great but don't chain well.
Design strings starting from the end: what do you need to have generated by the last step, and what needs to be true before that step can work?',
Variations
Create a 'starter string' for common situations (e.g. 'New Initiative String', 'Conflict Resolution String'). Share and adapt strings across your facilitation community.
Where it fits
Frequently asked questions
When should I use Liberating Structures String?â–¾
Use Liberating Structures String when you want to: Complex multi-hour workshops; Strategic offsite design; Community problem-solving; Organisational learning events.
How long does Liberating Structures String take?â–¾
Liberating Structures String typically takes 60–180 minutes.
How many participants does Liberating Structures String work for?â–¾
Liberating Structures String works best for groups of 5–100 participants.
What materials do I need for Liberating Structures String?â–¾
To run Liberating Structures String you will need: depends on chosen LS methods.
How difficult is Liberating Structures String to facilitate?â–¾
Liberating Structures String 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 Liberating Structures.