Facilitation Methods

480 methods · Pick the right tool for your next workshop

Kategorien im Überblick

Einstieg & Warming Up
48 Methoden
Kreativität & Ideen
72 Methoden
Analyse & Reflexion
63 Methoden
Entscheidung
41 Methoden
Strategie & Planung
55 Methoden
Energie & Bewegung
38 Methoden
Abschluss & Transfer
44 Methoden
Teamdynamik
65 Methoden

Methoden-Matrix

Methoden nach Gruppengröße & Energieniveau:

Klein & ruhig
Blitzlicht · Stille Kartei · Check-in Runde
Klein & aktiv
Lean Coffee · Dot Voting · 1-2-4-All
Groß & moderat
Fishbowl · Retrospektive · 6 Hüte
Groß & energiereich
Open Space · World Café · Brainstorming
Ideation

1-2-4-All

1-2-4-All is a structured method that engages every participant in generating ideas and solutions. It is particularly effective for harnessing diverse perspectives and facilitating rapid idea development in any group siz

12m4+Beginner
Facilitation

1-Page Project Charter

A collaborative facilitation exercise for aligning a team or group of stakeholders on the purpose, scope, goals, constraints, and success criteria of a project — on a single page. The constraint of one page forces clarit

1h–2h2–15Intermediate
Problem Solving

15% Solutions

15% Solutions is a method that encourages participants to identify and act on small, immediate actions within their control. This approach helps to build momentum, empower individuals, and uncover grassroots solutions to

5m4+Beginner
Strategy

2 Brains: Tell it & Sell It

The 2 Brains: Tell it & Sell It method helps teams craft compelling pitches by combining logical facts with emotional appeal. This method is ideal for forming slogans or pitches that need to captivate an audience by bala

30m–1h5–8Intermediate
Strategy

20/20 Vision

20/20 Vision is a strategic prioritization exercise that helps teams identify and focus on the most valuable projects or initiatives. By evaluating the perceived benefits of each option, participants align on priorities

30m–2h5–10Intermediate
Ideation

25/10 Crowd Sourcing

25/10 Crowd Sourcing is a dynamic method for rapidly generating and evaluating a group's most compelling ideas. Over a short session, participants individually propose bold ideas, which are then scored through a series o

30m10+Intermediate
Facilitation

3 Action Steps

This method supports groups and individuals in outlining actionable steps toward achieving a specific vision. It emphasizes discussion and collaboration, focusing participants on their desired future and how to get there

2h–4h2–40Intermediate
Team Building

3 Question Mingle

This activity encourages participants to learn about each other through self-created questions. It promotes movement and interaction, making it ideal for early team development stages.

30m–1h2–40Beginner
Ideation

3-12-3 Brainstorm

The 3-12-3 Brainstorm is a rapid ideation exercise designed to spark creativity and quick thinking. It involves generating ideas, developing concepts, and presenting them in a structured yet fast-paced manner. Ideal for

21m–30m10+Intermediate
Decision

35

The '35' method is designed to quickly prioritize ideas or items through a structured, pair-based ranking system. It effectively prevents bias and lengthy discussions by having participants distribute points across multi

15m–45m4–50Intermediate
Ideation

4Cs

The 4Cs method is a structured approach to explore and organize information about any topic using four key concepts: Components, Characteristics, Characters, and Challenges. This method is excellent for fostering diverse

30m–1h5–20Intermediate
Ideation

6-8-5

6-8-5 encourages participants to quickly generate multiple ideas to overcome the tendency to settle on the first good one. By imposing time constraints, it pushes for creativity and diverse thinking within a short period

30m–45m2–20Beginner
Facilitation

7Ps Framework

The 7Ps Framework provides a structured approach to planning a meeting by focusing on essential components. It helps clarify the meeting's purpose, desired output, participant roles, agenda, risks, preparation, and logis

20m–2h2+Beginner
Team Building

9 Dimensions Team-Building Activity

The 9 Dimensions activity is designed to foster connections and enhance trust within a team. Participants explore various aspects of themselves and share insights with others, building a deeper understanding.

20m–1h3+Beginner
Energiser

A snapshot of my life

Use this activity to foster connections among team members by sharing personal pictures that tell their stories. It's particularly beneficial for remote or international teams, helping to create a relaxed and open atmosp

10m–20mAnyBeginner
Facilitation

Action Plan Workshop: The Arrow

This workshop helps participants outline their future goals while identifying the steps needed to reach them. By visualizing their desired outcomes, participants create concrete action plans to achieve personal or group

1h–4h2–40Intermediate
Retro

Actions for Retrospectives

Actions for Retrospectives is a structured method to help teams reflect on past projects or events and identify actionable improvements. It encourages participants to explore different aspects such as challenges, potenti

1h5–8Intermediate
Facilitation

Active Listening

This activity encourages participants to deeply reflect on a question while using active listening practices with peers. It emphasizes focused listening and allows individuals to explore their thoughts in a supportive en

1h–2h2–40Intermediate
Facilitation

Affinity Clustering

Developed by Japanese anthropologist Jiro Kawakita (hence KJ Method), affinity clustering is the process of grouping a large set of ideas, observations, or data points into natural thematic clusters — driven by intuition

20m–1h2–20Beginner
Ideation

Affinity Map

Affinity Mapping is a technique used to organize ideas and data into meaningful clusters. It is ideal for identifying patterns and themes within a large set of information, making it useful for brainstorming follow-up se

10m–2h1–20Intermediate
Retro

After Action Review

Developed by the US Army, the After Action Review (AAR) is a structured debrief conducted immediately after a project, event, or incident. It uses four questions: What was supposed to happen? What actually happened? Why

30m–1h2–20Beginner
Strategy

Agile Inception Deck

A set of ten structured questions that help a team build shared understanding before a project begins — developed by Jonathan Rasmusson. Used to align stakeholders, set realistic expectations, and surface the most import

4h–8h4–12Intermediate
Ideation

Agile UX Sketching and Scrum

Agile UX Sketching and Scrum is a collaborative sketching exercise designed to generate a wide array of ideas quickly within agile teams. It helps teams visualize and explore potential product features, fostering a share

25m–35m4+Intermediate
Problem Solving

Agreement-Certainty Matching Matrix

The Agreement-Certainty Matching Matrix helps teams classify challenges as simple, complicated, complex, or chaotic. It is a powerful tool for identifying mismatches between challenges and solutions, enabling participant

40m4+Intermediate
Ideation

Air Time Mastermind

Air Time Mastermind is a playful brainstorming activity designed to generate creative solutions to participants' pressing problems. This method encourages participants to engage in a fun, childlike activity by making and

30m–2h10–50Beginner
Team Building

Alignment & Autonomy

This workshop helps teams reflect on their alignment with shared goals while enhancing individual autonomy. Focus on fostering a culture where team members take responsibility and can adapt efficiently to change.

1h–2h2–40Advanced
Facilitation

Angry Customers

This method helps participants practice handling angry customers through discussion and role-play. By alternating between group discussions and one-on-one scenarios, participants learn to respond effectively to challengi

40m6–30Beginner
Decision

Applying the Impact & Effort Matrix

The Impact & Effort Matrix is a decision-making tool that helps teams prioritize tasks by balancing strategic and tactical goals. Use this method when you need to evaluate multiple options and determine which ones offer

1h–2h4–20Intermediate
Team Building

Appreciations Exercise

Participants reflect on their strengths through feedback from peers, helping to boost motivation and self-esteem. This exercise creates a positive atmosphere, especially effective at the end of a workshop.

10m–20m6–12Intermediate
Energiser

Appreciative Circle

A closing ritual where participants offer specific appreciations — to each other, to the facilitator, or to the group as a whole. Unlike generic 'good job' feedback, appreciations are specific and personal: naming what a

10m–20m3–30Beginner
Facilitation

Appreciative Inquiry

Developed by David Cooperrider, Appreciative Inquiry (AI) is a strengths-based approach to organisational change. Rather than focusing on problems, AI asks 'What is working at its best?' and builds change from there. The

2h–8h5–500Intermediate
Energiser

Appreciative Interviews

A structured paired interview process from Appreciative Inquiry where participants interview each other about peak experiences and what they value most. Unlike problem-focused discussion openers, appreciative interviews

20m–40m4–100Beginner
relationship-building

Appreciative Interviews (AI)

Appreciative Interviews (AI) leverage the power of storytelling to uncover and amplify success within organizations. By focusing on what works well, this method creates a positive atmosphere and encourages participants t

30m4+Intermediate
Problem Solving

Argument Map

The Argument Map method facilitates structured debate by organizing arguments for and against a topic in a visual format. This method is ideal for scenarios requiring comprehensive analysis and mutual understanding among

1h–3h5–30Intermediate
Ideation

Assumption Storming

A structured exercise for surfacing and evaluating the hidden assumptions underlying a plan, strategy, or product idea. Participants list all the assumptions the plan depends on, then map them by importance (how critical

30m–1h2–20Intermediate
Ideation

Back of the Napkin

The 'Back of the Napkin' method encourages teams to brainstorm and capture their ideas on a napkin, inspired by the informal and spontaneous nature of 'aha' moments. Ideal for networking events, it fosters creativity and

10m2+Beginner
Facilitation

Back-turned Feedback

This method helps teams build trust and self-awareness through structured feedback. Participants take turns receiving compliments and constructive suggestions while seated with their backs to the group, creating an open

1h–2h2–40Advanced
Strategy

Backcasting

A strategic planning technique that begins with a vivid description of a desired future state, then works backwards to the present to identify the sequence of events, decisions, and milestones that would need to occur to

1h–2h3–20Intermediate
planning

Backlog Refinement

A recurring collaborative session where the Product Owner and development team review, clarify, estimate, and prioritise Product Backlog items. Refinement ensures the top of the backlog is always well-understood and 'Rea

1h–2h3–9Intermediate
Ideation

Bad Idea Brainstorm

This method encourages participants to freely share bad ideas to break mental blocks and encourage creativity. By listing poor solutions, the group can shift their thinking and find unexpected good ideas through remixing

15m3–6Intermediate
Energiser

Bang

Bang is a lively game that encourages quick reactions and brings laughter to the group. Participants stand in a circle, creating an engaging way for people to learn each other's names and bond.

5m–30m10–40Beginner
Decision

Bang-for-the-Buck

Bang-for-the-Buck is a collaborative prioritization tool used by product managers and development teams to evaluate and order backlog items based on their cost and value. This method helps teams visualize priorities and

1h5–8Intermediate
Facilitation

Barcamp / Unconference

A participant-driven event format (also called an unconference) where the agenda is created collaboratively at the start by participants themselves. Anyone can propose a session; sessions are scheduled into a grid of tim

4h–8h15–500Intermediate
Team Building

Best and Worst

This icebreaker activity helps participants get acquainted quickly. It encourages sharing personal experiences by discussing both positive and negative questions, fostering a relaxed atmosphere for future discussions.

10m–15m5–10Beginner
Team Building

Blind Square - Rope game

This team-building activity helps participants work together in a fun and challenging way. They will need to rely on communication and collaboration to form a perfect square using a rope while blindfolded.

40m–45m4–20Beginner
Ideation

Bodystorming

Bodystorming is an innovative approach to brainstorming that involves physical role-playing to explore and develop ideas. This method is particularly useful for understanding real-world interactions and testing concepts

1h–2h3+Intermediate
relationship-building

Boundary matrix

The Boundary Matrix method helps teams from different disciplines communicate effectively by mapping out key information and terms that need translation across fields. Use this method to facilitate better understanding a

1h–2h4+Intermediate
Ideation

Brain writing

Brain writing is a technique where participants generate ideas in writing instead of speaking them aloud. This approach can help quieter individuals contribute their thoughts without the pressure of verbal sharing.

15m–1hAnyBeginner
Ideation

Brainstorm Rules

Establish clear rules for a brainstorming session to enhance creativity and collaboration. These guidelines encourage open idea sharing while preventing negative criticism that stifles creativity.

1m–5mAnyBeginner
Ideation

Brainwriting

Brainwriting is a structured ideation method where participants silently generate and build on each other's ideas. It is particularly effective for tapping into the creativity of all group members, including those who ma

30m–45m5–15Beginner
Team Building

Break the Ice with The Four Quadrants Activity

The Four Quadrants activity is a simple and engaging way to help participants share about themselves and build connections. It encourages creativity and provides a visual format to spark conversation and understanding wi

15m–30m3+Beginner
Problem Solving

Breaking News

In the Breaking News activity, participants analyze assumptions and implications of a specific theory after preparing with relevant reading. A new theory is suddenly introduced, prompting discussion on the differences be

45m–2hAnyBeginner
planning

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 priori

1h3–10Intermediate
Energiser

Build-a-Shake

Create a unique handshake with a partner to foster connection and creativity. Participants will collaborate to develop fun handshake sequences, promoting engagement and interaction among group members.

5m–10m4+Beginner
Strategy

Building Partnerships

Building Partnerships is a strategic workshop method that uses the Partnership Canvas to explore and visualize potential or existing partnerships. This tool helps teams define business priorities, empathize with partners

2h5+Intermediate
Team Building

Bus Trip

Bus Trip is an engaging feedback activity that promotes positive exchanges among participants. This method energizes the group while reinforcing the importance of appreciation and acknowledgment of each other's contribut

20m–45m10–30Beginner
Strategy

Business Model Canvas

Developed by Alexander Osterwalder, the Business Model Canvas is a strategic management template that maps nine building blocks of a business on a single page: Customer Segments, Value Propositions, Channels, Customer Re

1h–3h2–12Intermediate
Ideation

Button

The Button method is a dynamic alternative to the traditional round-robin approach, maintaining engagement by allowing participants to choose who speaks next. This technique ensures that everyone contributes once before

15m–30m4+Beginner
Decision

Buy a Feature

A prioritisation game developed by Luke Hohmann where participants spend a limited budget of play money to 'buy' features from a list. Each feature is priced (roughly proportional to implementation cost). Since some feat

30m–1h3–20Intermediate
relationship-building

Campfire

Campfire is a storytelling activity that encourages participants to share work-related stories, fostering informal learning and uncovering shared experiences. It is ideal for building relationships and enhancing team dyn

30m–45m8–20Beginner
Ideation

Card Sort

Card Sort is a method used to organize and categorize information by arranging cards, each containing a piece of information. It is useful for designing navigation structures, organizing presentation content, or any scen

30m1+Intermediate
Ideation

Carousel

The Carousel method is designed to gather diverse perspectives and insights on various aspects of a topic. It encourages participation from all attendees, making it ideal for exploring complex issues through collective i

15m–1h5–50Intermediate
Problem Solving

Causal Loop Diagram

A systems thinking tool for mapping the feedback loops, delays, and relationships between variables in a complex system. Arrows show causal relationships (positive = same direction, negative = opposite direction). Loops

1h–3h3–15Advanced
relationship-building

Celebrity Interview

The Celebrity Interview method transforms a standard presentation into an engaging dialogue with a leader or expert, allowing participants to connect on a personal level. This format is ideal for drawing out stories and

1h4+Intermediate
Problem Solving

Challenge Cards

Challenge Cards is a problem-solving method designed to identify and address potential challenges in products, services, or strategies. It engages participants in a competitive storytelling format, encouraging them to br

30m–1h5–10Intermediate
Strategy

Challenger Selling Model

The Challenger Selling Model is a strategic workshop to develop customized sales strategies by balancing three key skills: teaching, tailoring, and taking control. It leverages a visual organizational tool to help sales

1h5–8Intermediate
Team Building

Check-in / Check-out

Check-in and check-out are simple processes that allow team members to express their current feelings and reflections. This practice helps foster a sense of presence, commitment, and closure among group members.

5m–30m2–40Beginner
Team Building

Check-In Questions

Check-in questions help a team begin a session or project by facilitating open sharing. They can cater to the specific stage of the group's journey and the mood they wish to create, fostering connection and engagement am

5m–1h2–40Beginner
Facilitation

Check-Out Round

A structured closing ritual where each participant briefly shares a takeaway, reflection, or commitment before the session ends. It creates a meaningful close, reinforces learning, and ensures everyone leaves with clarit

5m–15m2–40Beginner
Problem Solving

Choose your words wisely

Choose your words wisely is a method that uses the Semantic Environment Canvas to explore and understand the language and power dynamics within a specific context. It helps participants uncover how language shapes intera

20m–40m1–6Intermediate
Facilitation

Circle, Square, Triangle

This method promotes reflection at the end of a workshop. Participants identify what they understand well, what still puzzles them, and key takeaways they can implement in their lives or work.

FlexibleAnyBeginner
Retro

Circles and Soup

Circles and Soup is a reflective method used to help teams identify factors they can control, influence, or must adapt to. It's particularly effective for overcoming unproductive blame and creating actionable plans in re

1h5–8Intermediate
Strategy

Circles of Influence

Circles of Influence is a strategic method to identify and leverage your network for achieving business goals. It helps participants map out connections that can provide support and resources, transforming plans into act

1h5–8Intermediate
Coaching

Circular Questions

Circular Questions is a systemic facilitation technique that prompts participants to take the perspective of others in the group or system. By asking questions like 'What do you think your colleague would say about this?

20m–1h3–30Intermediate
Ideation

Clear Communication

This activity helps participants generate various examples related to specific communication categories. It promotes understanding and clarity by encouraging individuals to think critically about different aspects of com

20m–30m5+Beginner
Facilitation

Coach Yourself out of a Funk in 3 Steps

This method helps individuals shift their mindset and improve their emotional state. It involves reflecting on one’s needs, creating a vision for the future, and establishing supportive habits that foster personal growth

5m–1h2–10Beginner
relationship-building

Code of Conduct

The Code of Conduct method helps establish a shared understanding of group values and behaviors to foster mutual trust and a positive environment. It is ideal for aligning expectations and responsibilities within a team.

30m1–30Intermediate
Energiser

Common Ground

A lively physical exercise where the facilitator reads out a statement and anyone it applies to stands up (or steps forward, or raises a hand). Participants discover shared experiences and traits across apparent differen

10m–20m6–40Beginner
relationship-building

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 dyna

1h–2h18+Advanced
Facilitation

Communication Styles: P.A.A

This activity helps participants understand the impact of different communication styles: passive, aggressive, and assertive. It encourages exploration of how these styles affect group discussions and decision-making pro

10m–20m5–15Intermediate
Ideation

Concept Poster

Teams distill a solution concept onto a single poster as if they were designing a billboard or magazine ad for it. The physical constraint forces clarity — if you can't explain it on one page, you don't understand it wel

30m–1h2–20Intermediate
Team Building

Conflict Responses

This workshop guides teams through reflecting on past conflicts to establish effective conflict management guidelines. Utilizing the Thomas-Killman model, participants analyze their experiences and develop strategies for

1h–2h2–40Intermediate
Energiser

Constellation

A physical voting and perspective-taking exercise. A statement is read out and participants position themselves in the room on an invisible spectrum — one wall means 'strongly agree', the opposite means 'strongly disagre

10m–20m5–60Beginner
Facilitation

Context Map

The Context Map helps visualize the external factors influencing an organization. It's a collaborative tool for identifying trends, political and economic factors, technology impacts, customer needs, and uncertainties, p

45m–2h5–25Intermediate
Strategy

Context Map (Gamestorming)

The Context Map helps teams visualize external factors affecting their organization, enabling strategic foresight. Use it to understand political, economic, technological, and other external influences, allowing teams to

45m–2h5–25Intermediate
relationship-building

Conversation Café

The Conversation Café method facilitates meaningful dialogue among participants, helping them make sense of challenging situations and develop new strategies. By using a structured format and a talking object, it encoura

1h4+Intermediate
Problem Solving

Coriolis Effect

The Coriolis Effect is a dynamic team exercise focused on communication, collaboration, and problem-solving. It challenges teams to transport a ball around a circle using only gutters, highlighting individual preferences

30m4–15Intermediate
Facilitation

Council Practice

A ceremonial form of structured dialogue rooted in indigenous traditions and developed for contemporary use by Jack Zimmerman and Virginia Coyle of the Ojai Foundation. Council creates a held space for authentic expressi

30m–2h4–20Intermediate
Team Building

Count Up

In this activity, participants take turns counting to a predetermined number without overlapping. The objective is to foster focus and collaboration, making it ideal for team building.

5m–30m10–40Beginner
Strategy

Cover Story

Cover Story is a visionary exercise where participants imagine their organization achieving such extraordinary success that it lands on the cover of a major magazine. This method encourages expansive thinking and helps t

1h–2h4+Intermediate
Ideation

Crazy 8s

A fast ideation exercise from Google Design Sprints. Participants fold a sheet of paper into eight panels and sketch eight different ideas — one per panel — in eight minutes (one minute per sketch). The extreme time pres

15m–25m1–30Beginner
Facilitation

Critical Thinking Mindset

Encourage participants to reflect on a topic by using critical thinking questions. This method helps in evaluating information from various sources to enhance understanding and make informed decisions.

30m–1h2–10Beginner
Problem Solving

Critical Uncertainties

Guide a diverse group in assessing and responding to uncertainties in their environment. This method helps participants clarify critical issues and enhances their readiness to adapt strategies based on unpredictable futu

2h10+Intermediate
Strategy

Critical Uncertainties

Critical Uncertainties is a strategic planning method that helps groups explore the impact of unpredictable factors on their operations. By surfacing critical uncertainties, participants can develop strategies that enhan

2h4+Intermediate
Team Building

Cross the Circle

This activity helps participants discover shared experiences in a fun way. By moving through the circle, they visually connect with others who have similar backgrounds or interests.

5m–10m10–25Beginner
Strategy

Crossfire

Crossfire is a dynamic debate method that encourages participants to explore opposing viewpoints on a topic. It is ideal for delving into controversial issues, evaluating new ideas, or analyzing competitive strategies.

2m–3m2–42Intermediate
Ideation

Customer experience map

This method visualizes the steps a customer takes while using a product or service, along with their reactions. It helps uncover barriers in the customer experience.

4hAnyBeginner
Strategy

Customer-Centric

The Customer-Centric method helps teams map out and identify key stakeholders and users who impact or are impacted by a product. By organizing stakeholders into concentric circles, teams can visualize direct and indirect

1h5–8Intermediate
Strategy

Customer, Employee, Shareholder

The 'Customer, Employee, Shareholder' method encourages participants to envision a business's future from different stakeholder perspectives. By adopting these roles, participants explore potential future scenarios and i

1h–3h1–10Intermediate
Facilitation

Daily Stand-up

A daily time-boxed synchronisation ritual from Scrum, run standing up to encourage brevity. Each team member answers three questions: What did I do yesterday? What will I do today? Is anything blocking me? The stand-up i

15m2–10Beginner
Retro

DAKI Retrospective

A retrospective format that asks the team to reflect across four dimensions: what to Drop (stop doing entirely), Add (start doing), Keep (continue doing well), and Improve (do better). More action-oriented than Start/Sto

45m–1h3–20Intermediate
Energiser

Dance, Dance, Dance

This energetic activity invites participants to dance in small teams, creating a lively atmosphere. As the music changes, team members take turns leading the dance, encouraging fun and playfulness among the group.

5m–30m10–40Beginner
Facilitation

Decisions, Decisions…

This exercise explores the influence of how options are presented on decision-making. Participants will choose between two options that have identical outcomes but are framed differently, highlighting the framing effect

10m–20m2–30Beginner
Team Building

Defining Team Purpose and Culture

This session helps teams articulate their purpose and culture by collaboratively defining what they stand for and how they work together. Participants will create a visual representation of their collective identity, whi

1h–4h2–10Intermediate
Facilitation

Definition of Done Workshop

A collaborative session for a team to define their shared standard for when work is truly complete. A strong Definition of Done (DoD) prevents technical debt, misaligned expectations, and the 'done but not really done' t

1h–2h3–10Intermediate
planning

Definition of Ready

A team agreement that defines the minimum criteria a backlog item must meet before it can be pulled into a Sprint. The Definition of Ready prevents teams from starting work on stories that are too vague, too large, or mi

30m–1h3–9Intermediate
Decision

Delegation Poker

Developed by Jurgen Appelo as part of Management 3.0, Delegation Poker uses playing cards to make delegation levels explicit. Seven delegation levels range from 'Tell' (I decide, I tell you) through 'Consult', 'Agree', '

30m–1h2–20Intermediate
facilitation-techniques

Design Critique

A structured review session where design, product, or creative work is evaluated against specific goals — not personal taste. Unlike an informal review, a design critique separates observation from opinion, grounds feedb

30m–2h3–10Intermediate
Problem Solving

Design Sprint

A five-day intensive framework developed at Google Ventures by Jake Knapp. Each day has a specific focus: Map (understand the problem), Sketch (generate individual solutions), Decide (select the best approach), Prototype

24h4–8Advanced
Team Building

Design Sprint for Any Team

This method helps teams quickly prototype and test new ideas. It is structured to encourage fast-paced creativity and collaboration, enabling teams to transform concepts into tangible prototypes in a short period.

2h–4h2–10Intermediate
planning

Design StoryBoards

Design StoryBoards is a method for creating a detailed and visual plan to guide group interactions and achieve a clear purpose. It helps in organizing the necessary microstructures, participation, and facilitation elemen

30m–1h2+Intermediate
Ideation

Design The Box

Design The Box is a creative exercise where teams conceptualize and design a box to represent their product or idea. This method encourages teams to clarify the essential features and benefits of their concept by visuali

1h4+Beginner
Ideation

Discovery & Action Dialogue (DAD)

Discovery & Action Dialogue helps groups identify effective local solutions to common challenges shared among members. Participants collaborate to uncover hidden practices that lead to better problem-solving without need

25m–1h5–15Intermediate
Problem Solving

Do, Redo & Undo

Do, Redo & Undo is a method that encourages teams to plan for potential mistakes and changes in their projects by considering how to avoid, correct, or completely reverse actions. It is particularly useful in developing

1h3–10Intermediate
Team Building

Doodling Together

Participants engage in a collaborative drawing activity that fosters creativity and team bonding. By passing around their artwork, they build on each other's ideas while having fun.

10m–30m4–200Beginner
Decision

Dot Voting

A democratic prioritisation technique where each participant receives a fixed number of votes (represented by dot stickers or marks) to allocate across a set of options. Options with the most dots rise to the top. It's f

5m–20m2–100Beginner
Facilitation

Dotmocracy

Dotmocracy is a group decision-making method that helps participants prioritize options quickly. It involves voting with dots to visually indicate preferences and identify popular choices among the group.

5m–30m2+Beginner
Ideation

Draw Toast

Draw Toast is an engaging activity that introduces participants to visual thinking, mental models, and systems thinking. It serves as an excellent warm-up exercise to spark creativity and discussion among group members.

10m–15m1+Beginner
Ideation

Drawing Together

Drawing Together is a creative method that uses simple symbols to express complex ideas and emotions, bypassing verbal limitations. This technique is ideal for accessing insights and patterns not easily captured through

40m1+Beginner
Facilitation

E.T.

E.T. stands for 'Effective Trainer.' In this activity, participants analyze both effective and ineffective trainers to uncover key techniques for successful training. This reflective process helps participants appreciate

20m–45m6–50Intermediate
Ideation

Eagle and Hawk Brainstorming

A structured pair-discussion method where participants brainstorm with unfamiliar partners by rotating roles. One group (Eagles) moves to new partners while the other (Hawks) stays put, ensuring everyone exchanges ideas

20m–40m6–30Intermediate
planning

Ecocycle Planning

Ecocycle Planning is a strategic tool that helps teams evaluate their activities through the lenses of four developmental phases: birth, maturity, creative destruction, and renewal. This method encourages a balanced appr

1h4+Intermediate
Strategy

Elevator Pitch

The Elevator Pitch method helps groups succinctly articulate the essence of a product, service, or idea. It's ideal for defining a unique value proposition by identifying the target customer, their needs, and the key ben

2h1+Intermediate
Problem Solving

Emotional journey

The emotional journey method visualizes a user's feelings while interacting with a service or product. This technique helps teams pinpoint where users experience both joy and frustration, guiding them towards improvement

FlexibleAnyIntermediate
Ideation

Empathy Map

The Empathy Map is a tool designed to help teams gain a deeper understanding of their stakeholders, such as customers or partners, by visually mapping their experiences and perspectives. It's particularly useful when you

20m1+Beginner
planning

Establish a Workshop Rhythm

Establishing a workshop rhythm involves structuring activities to accommodate diverse thinking styles. This method helps engage both quick thinkers and those who prefer more reflective time, ensuring all voices are heard

30m4+Intermediate
feedback

Ethos, Logos, Pathos

Ethos, Logos, Pathos is a feedback method drawing on Aristotle's principles of rhetoric to evaluate the persuasiveness of a communication piece. Ideal for assessing presentations or proposals, it helps participants ident

10m–1h1–10Intermediate
Problem Solving

Event Storming

Created by Alberto Brandolini, Event Storming is a collaborative modelling workshop that brings together developers and domain experts to explore a complex business domain at speed. Participants model a system or busines

3h–8h6–30Advanced
Problem Solving

Everyday Hassles

This activity encourages participants to identify and explore positive reactions to everyday annoyances. It highlights how shifting our perspective can lead to constructive responses to frustrating situations.

30m–2h10+Intermediate
planning

Example Mapping

A structured conversation technique from BDD (Behaviour-Driven Development) that clarifies user stories by mapping out acceptance rules and concrete examples before development begins. A Three Amigos session (developer,

25m–45m3–6Intermediate
Team Building

Excited

This quick activity gets participants engaged while they explore what makes a task exciting. It encourages teamwork and communication as they work together to solve a word puzzle.

3m–5m15+Beginner
Facilitation

Explore your Values

This exercise helps participants identify their core values through a quick and instinctual process. It encourages them to focus on their genuine feelings rather than overthinking their choices, fostering meaningful refl

1h–2h2–40Intermediate
Problem Solving

Exploring Client Centricity

This method focuses on understanding and enhancing client-centricity within an organization. Participants will collaboratively reflect on their experiences as clients to uncover insights that define a client-focused appr

1h–2h2–10Intermediate
Problem Solving

Facilitating with Constraints

Facilitating with Constraints is a method that uses defined boundaries to spark creativity and focus in problem-solving. It is particularly useful when dealing with complex issues like budget planning, meeting design, or

1h12–18Intermediate
Facilitation

Feedback Carousel

A rapid peer feedback technique where participants rotate through giving and receiving structured feedback in short timed rounds. Each round is focused and brief (3–5 minutes). The carousel format ensures everyone receiv

30m–1h6–30Beginner
Facilitation

Feedback Map

The Feedback Map method helps participants provide clear, specific feedback by visualizing their interactions over a set period. Team members create a visual representation of their connections, which serves as a foundat

30m–2h2–40Intermediate
Facilitation

Feedback Mingle

Feedback Mingle allows participants to give and receive constructive feedback in a supportive environment. This activity often serves as a closing exercise, promoting team cohesion and positive energy among members.

2h–4h2–40Intermediate
Facilitation

Feedback: Current Strongest Impression

This method helps teams build trust and openness through structured feedback. Participants share their strongest impressions of each other, promoting self-awareness and insight within the group.

1h–2h2–40Advanced
Facilitation

Feedback: I Appreciate...

This exercise encourages participants to share constructive feedback in a structured way, promoting trust and openness within the group. By focusing on appreciation and desired actions, it fosters stronger relationships

1h–2h2–40Advanced
Facilitation

Feedback: Start, Stop, Continue

This method encourages team members to provide constructive feedback to enhance trust and communication. Participants reflect on behaviors or actions that should start, stop, and continue, fostering self-awareness and op

1h–2h2–40Advanced
Facilitation

Finger Rules

Finger Rules help structure discussions by using hand gestures to indicate participants' opinions and requests. This method ensures that everyone can contribute efficiently and that their points are clearly understood.

5m–10m3+Intermediate
relationship-building

Fishbowl

The Fishbowl method fosters active listening and observation among participants by dividing them into 'players' and 'observers'. It's ideal for situations where stakeholders need to understand different perspectives with

40m–45m8+Intermediate
Decision

Fist of Five

A quick consensus-checking technique where participants indicate their level of support for a proposal by showing 1 to 5 fingers simultaneously. Five fingers = full support, one finger = strong opposition with a blocking

5m–15m3–40Beginner
Ideation

Five "-ful" Envelopes

This method uses five envelopes labeled with positive emotions: hopeful, joyful, peaceful, playful, and thankful. Participants explore these emotions to cultivate a more positive mindset and enhance group dynamics.

30m–2h10–30Intermediate
Ideation

Five ideas

This activity helps groups generate ideas for achieving shared goals across teams or departments. It emphasizes collaboration to create high-performance teams that work toward common objectives.

45m–3h2–10Advanced
Decision

Five-Fingered Consensus

The Five-Fingered Consensus is a quick and effective method to gauge the level of agreement within a group on a particular topic. It is particularly useful in large groups or breakout sessions where time is limited.

5m–15m5+Beginner
Problem Solving

Flip It

Flip It is a problem-solving method that encourages participants to transform negative perspectives into positive outcomes by reframing concerns as opportunities. Use this technique to shift mindset and generate actionab

30m–1h5–20Intermediate
Problem Solving

Force Field Analysis

Force Field Analysis is a structured method for evaluating the factors that drive or hinder a proposed change within an organization. This method is ideal for teams looking to comprehensively assess the feasibility of a

30m–2h5–30Intermediate
Retro

Four Ls Retrospective

A retrospective framework using four prompts: Liked (what went well), Learned (new insights or skills gained), Lacked (what was missing or insufficient), and Longed For (what the team wished they had). It balances positi

30m–50m3–25Beginner
Ideation

Four-Step Sketch

The Four-Step Sketch is a method that guides participants to develop ideas in a structured way. It focuses on reviewing information, sketching initial designs, exploring various options, and refining a detailed solution.

2h1–12Beginner
Strategy

Friend or Foe?

The 'Friend or Foe?' method helps teams map out and analyze stakeholder relationships and their influence on a project. It is particularly useful for understanding the dynamics within an organization and identifying pote

1h5–15Intermediate
Facilitation

Friendly Flyers

This exercise promotes communication and relationship building within teams. Participants work in pairs to create paper airplanes while sharing personal insights, culminating in a playful flying contest to guess whose pl

15m–30m6–30Beginner
Strategy

Future Backwards

Developed by Dave Snowden and Cynthia Kurtz, Future Backwards is a strategic narrative tool that helps groups explore their past, present, and possible futures. Participants map the path that led to the current state (hi

1h–2h5–30Intermediate
Ideation

Future Workshop

The Future Workshop method enables participants to envision their ideal future without constraints. It encourages creativity and frees the imagination, making it particularly effective with diverse groups, including youn

4hAnyIntermediate
Facilitation

Gallery Walk

A facilitation technique where outputs, ideas, or prompts are displayed on the walls like a gallery exhibition. Participants circulate at their own pace, reading, adding sticky note comments, and dot-voting on items. It

20m–45m6–60Beginner
Strategy

Gamestormin' for the Unions in D.C.

Gamestormin' for the Unions in D.C. is a strategic workshop designed to invigorate union teams using a combination of visual thinking and innovative game techniques. Ideal for groups looking to shift from good to great,

2h–2h5–20Advanced
Ideation

Gamestorming Card Deck App

The Gamestorming Card Deck App is a digital tool designed to enhance innovation and problem-solving through playful exercises. It provides a collection of games and activities to facilitate creative thinking in meetings

5m1+Beginner
relationship-building

Gamestorming for Distributed Teams

Gamestorming for Distributed Teams adapts traditional gamestorming techniques for remote teams, using digital tools to facilitate collaboration. This method is ideal for teams spread across different locations that want

1h4+Intermediate
relationship-building

Gamestorming Photo Submission

The Gamestorming Photo Submission method encourages individuals to contribute to a collaborative platform by submitting photos of games in action. This method is ideal for engaging participants in a creative exercise tha

30m1+Beginner
relationship-building

Generative Relationships STAR

The Generative Relationships STAR method helps groups diagnose and improve their relational dynamics, fostering more effective collaboration. Using the STAR compass, participants assess their team across four attributes:

25m4+Intermediate
Energiser

Get To Know You Better

This activity encourages quick introductions among participants while reducing initial awkwardness. It gets everyone talking and helps build connections from the start of the session.

1m–15m20+Beginner
Energiser

GIF challenge

Engage participants in a lively online activity where they respond to prompts with creative GIFs. This energiser fosters teamwork, creativity, and a bit of friendly competition.

15m2+Beginner
Decision

Gradients of Agreement

Developed by Sam Kaner, this tool maps participant support for a proposal on a seven-point spectrum from 'Whole-hearted endorsement' to 'Block'. Unlike binary yes/no votes, it reveals the texture of group opinion — enabl

10m–30m3–30Intermediate
planning

Graphic Gameplan

The Graphic Gameplan is a visual planning tool designed to transform ideas into actionable steps. It helps teams break down projects into manageable tasks, fostering clarity and consensus on the path forward.

30m–2h1+Intermediate
Ideation

Graphic Jam

Graphic Jam is a visualization exercise aimed at transforming abstract concepts into visual representations. It's ideal for warming up creative thinking and can be used to spark innovation in areas like logo and presenta

30m–1h5–15Intermediate
Facilitation

Graphic Recording

The real-time visual capture of a group's ideas, conversations, and insights using drawing, text, and visual metaphor on a large shared surface. A skilled graphic recorder makes the invisible visible — synthesising compl

30m–8h5–500Advanced
Team Building

Group Order

This activity energizes participants and helps them connect by exploring what they have in common. Use it to facilitate networking and improve group dynamics at the start of a session.

5m–10m5+Beginner
Facilitation

GROW Coaching Model

The most widely used coaching framework, developed by Sir John Whitmore. GROW is a structured conversation model with four phases: Goal (what do you want to achieve?), Reality (what is happening now?), Options (what coul

30m–1h2–2Intermediate
Energiser

Guess the Desk

This energiser helps remote teams learn about each other's workspaces in a fun and interactive way. Participants will share photos of their work setups and try to guess whose desk is whose while enjoying some light-heart

15m–30m4+Beginner
Facilitation

Harvest

A collective sense-making practice used to capture and consolidate the key insights, decisions, commitments, and questions emerging from a group session. Unlike simple note-taking, harvesting is participatory — the group

15m–45m3–100Beginner
icebreakers

Hawaiian Style Introductions

Each participant introduces themselves following the traditional Hawaiian order: place (where you're from), family (genealogy/roots), and self (who you are). This format recognises that identity is collective and context

20m–1h4–20Intermediate
Ideation

Headlines from the Future

This activity encourages participants to envision the success of a project two decades into the future. By creating a compelling headline and visual representation, teams can establish a bold vision that informs their cu

30mAnyIntermediate
relationship-building

Heard, Seen, Respected (HSR)

Heard, Seen, Respected (HSR) is a method designed to enhance empathy and listening skills within a group. It encourages participants to share personal stories about not feeling heard, seen, or respected, fostering an env

35m4+Intermediate
Ideation

Heart, Hand, Mind

Heart, Hand, Mind is a structured approach to evaluate an issue from emotional, practical, and logical perspectives. Use this method to gain a holistic understanding of a product, decision, or strategy by examining its e

10m–1h1–10Beginner
Energiser

Helium Stick

The Helium Stick activity promotes teamwork and communication among participants. In this engaging exercise, participants must work together to lower a lightweight stick using only their fingertips, which often leads to

5m5+Beginner
Energiser

Hello Kitty

Participants engage in a light-hearted game where the goal is to keep a straight face. One group pretends to be 'kittens,' while the other group, 'puppies,' works to get them to smile. The last kitten standing wins the r

5m–30m2–40Beginner
Problem Solving

Help Me Understand

Help Me Understand facilitates open communication between employees and leadership by allowing team members to express their questions about a topic or change. This method helps reveal common concerns and enables leaders

30m–2h5–25Intermediate
relationship-building

Helping Heuristics

Helping Heuristics is a method designed to improve participants' understanding of their interaction patterns and enhance their ability to offer and receive help effectively. By engaging in structured role-playing exercis

15m3+Intermediate
reflection

Here, There, Everywhere

Here, There, Everywhere is a reflective exercise designed to help participants identify and apply key takeaways from a session. It encourages individuals to consider how they can implement new insights in their work or p

13m2+Beginner
planning

Hero's Journey Agenda

The Hero's Journey Agenda is a dynamic way to outline a meeting or workshop agenda, inspired by the classic narrative structure. By casting the agenda as an adventure, this method engages participants and sets an anticip

10m–15m1+Intermediate
Ideation

Heuristic Ideation Technique

The Heuristic Ideation Technique is a structured approach to idea generation using a matrix to explore new combinations of attributes. This method encourages participants to think creatively by mixing and matching differ

15m–2h1–10Intermediate
Strategy

History Map

The History Map method is a powerful tool for organizations to reflect on their past and use it to guide future strategies. It involves creating a visual timeline of significant events, changes, and milestones, which hel

30m–2h10–50Intermediate
Ideation

Homepage Bingo

Homepage Bingo is an engaging ideation exercise where participants design a product or service homepage by ranking features as if arranging a bingo card. This method encourages quick decision-making and prioritization of

30m–1h3–10Intermediate
Facilitation

Hopes and Fears

A simple opening exercise where participants write their hopes (what they want to achieve or experience) and fears (what they worry about) for the session or project ahead. Displayed publicly, the collection creates a sh

15m–25m3–30Beginner
Retro

Hot Air Balloon Retrospective

A visual retrospective using a hot air balloon metaphor. The balloon represents the team, hot air (flames) represents what energises and propels the team upward, sandbags represent what is weighing the team down, clouds

40m–1h3–20Beginner
Ideation

How Might We

A reframing technique popularised by IDEO and the Stanford d.school that transforms problem statements and observations into open-ended ideation prompts. Each 'How Might We...' question is specific enough to provide dire

20m–45m2–30Beginner
convergence

How-Now-Wow Matrix

The How-Now-Wow Matrix is a convergence tool that helps teams evaluate and prioritize ideas by assessing their originality and ease of implementation. This method is ideal after an ideation session to categorize ideas in

10m–40m1–30Intermediate
Ideation

HoWoRiCha

Use the HoWoRiCha framework to examine complex topics through the lenses of Hopes, Worries, Risks, and Chances. This method fosters connection among participants, helping to build understanding and reduce uncertainty abo

20m–30m5–25Beginner
Energiser

Human Bingo

An energetic ice breaker where participants circulate and find people who match descriptions in a Bingo grid (e.g. 'has lived in more than two countries', 'speaks three languages', 'has a pet'). The goal is to get a pers

15m–25m10–60Beginner
icebreakers

I Am From Poem

Participants write a short four-stanza personal poem using four prompts rooted in childhood memory — neighbourhood sights and sounds, family food, family sayings, and important people from the past. Sharing these poems b

40m–1h4–30Intermediate
Energiser

I Love You Honey...

A fun icebreaker where participants try to make each other smile without breaking character. One person in the middle says a playful phrase to another, who must resist smiling. This game fosters a relaxed atmosphere and

5m–30m10–40Beginner
Team Building

I used to think...But now I think...

This activity encourages participants to reflect on their changing perspectives after a learning experience. It helps identify key insights and growth in opinions or attitudes related to the subject matter.

5m–15m4+Beginner
Ideation

Idea & Concept Development

This method helps groups work together to generate and develop creative ideas. It is adaptable for various contexts, focusing on fostering teamwork and open-mindedness during the ideation process.

1h–2h2–40Intermediate
Facilitation

IDOARRT Meeting Design

IDOARRT is a straightforward framework for structuring meetings effectively. It helps facilitators clarify the purpose, expected outcomes, and roles at the start to ensure everyone understands the meeting's direction and

5m–30m2–40Beginner
Facilitation

Ikigai

A Japanese concept meaning 'reason for being'. The Ikigai framework maps four overlapping dimensions: What you love, What you're good at, What the world needs, and What you can be paid for. The intersection of all four i

45m–2h1–20Beginner
Decision

Impact & Effort Matrix

The Impact & Effort Matrix is a decision-making tool that helps teams evaluate and prioritize ideas based on their potential impact and the effort required to implement them. It is especially useful for balancing short-t

30m–1h2+Intermediate
Facilitation

Impact and Effort Matrix

This exercise helps teams prioritize actions by evaluating their potential impact against the effort required to implement them. It encourages thoughtful decision-making as participants categorize ideas based on these tw

30m–1h3–15Beginner
Strategy

Impact Mapping

Created by Gojko Adzic, Impact Mapping is a strategic planning technique that builds a mind-map connecting business goals to deliverables through actors and impacts. Structure: Goal (why are we doing this?) → Actors (who

1h–3h3–12Intermediate
relationship-building

Impromptu Networking

Impromptu Networking is a dynamic method to quickly build connections and surface challenges within a group. Use this at the start of a session to encourage participation and set the stage for collaborative problem-solvi

20m4+Beginner
relationship-building

Impromptu Speed Networking

Impromptu Speed Networking is a dynamic method to energize participants and foster connections, ideal for transitions in a workshop. It allows everyone to engage with the topic, ensuring each participant has a voice in t

20m12+Beginner
Ideation

Improv Prototyping

Improv Prototyping is a dynamic method where participants act out potential solutions to complex problems. It encourages creativity and collaboration by having diverse groups dramatize scenarios to innovate and refine id

20m4+Intermediate
relationship-building

In Defense of Games in the Workplace

This method leverages the power of games to foster collaboration and break down hierarchical barriers in the workplace. Use it to introduce game mechanics that encourage innovative thinking and enhance team dynamics.

30m–1h4+Intermediate
Strategy

Innovation Ambition Matrix

The Innovation Ambition Matrix is a strategic tool designed to help teams map out their innovation initiatives across three levels: core, adjacent, and transformational. Use this method to clarify project ambitions, alig

1h5–8Intermediate
Ideation

Innovation Generator

The Innovation Generator is a structured ideation method designed to help teams identify and address customer needs by leveraging existing or potential inventions. By exploring the intersection of customer problems and c

1h5–8Intermediate
Strategy

Integrated~Autonomy

Integrated~Autonomy helps groups balance the dual needs of integration and autonomy, facilitating strategic thinking and collaboration. This method is particularly useful for organizations facing conflicts between the ne

1h–2h8+Advanced
Problem Solving

Inter-professional team meeting

Participants take on different professional roles to work collaboratively on a fictional case. This method encourages diverse perspectives and helps team members formulate shared goals and solutions.

2h4+Intermediate
Problem Solving

Interdisciplinary Debate

Participants are challenged to defend a disciplinary perspective that is not their own. This exercise encourages critical thinking and helps students learn to evaluate arguments effectively.

1h–2h5+Intermediate
Problem Solving

Ishikawa Diagram

Developed by Kaoru Ishikawa, this diagram visualises the causes of a problem in a structured fishbone shape. The problem (effect) sits at the right, with major cause categories branching off like fish bones. The most com

30m–1h2–15Intermediate
Problem Solving

Issue Analysis

This method helps participants break down a complex and ambiguous issue into clearer, manageable components. It allows the group to understand the various elements of a situation and prioritize their focus for discussion

Flexible1–20Advanced
Facilitation

Jigsaw Method

A cooperative learning structure developed by Elliot Aronson. Participants start in 'home groups' then split into 'expert groups' — each expert group studies a different topic or material. Experts then return to their ho

45m–2h9–40Intermediate
relationship-building

Job or Joy

Job or Joy is a relationship-building exercise designed to explore team members' likes and dislikes both in and outside of work. By mapping activities onto a four-quadrant chart, participants gain insights into what brin

1h5–8Beginner
Strategy

Jobs to Be Done Mapping

A framework for understanding why customers 'hire' a product or service — what job they're trying to get done in their lives. Developed by Clayton Christensen, JTBD shifts focus from user demographics to the functional,

1h–2h2–10Intermediate
Team Building

Johari Window

Developed by psychologists Joseph Luft and Harry Ingham in 1955, the Johari Window is a model for exploring self-awareness and interpersonal communication. A 2x2 grid maps what is known/unknown to self and to others: Ope

45m–2h2–20Intermediate
Problem Solving

Journalists

This method helps groups clarify their main ideas when they are bogged down in details or lack a clear vision. By creating a fictional newspaper front page, participants can focus on the most essential stories and insigh

45m–1h1–20Beginner
Strategy

JourneyFolio

JourneyFolio is a structured framework for creating a personal narrative that goes beyond a traditional resume. It allows participants to visually document their life achievements, skills, and unique experiences using a

2h1+Intermediate
Team Building

Just One Lie

This icebreaker fosters connections and lightens the mood in a group. Participants share personal truths and one lie, encouraging interaction and laughter throughout your meeting.

Flexible5–20Beginner
planning

Kanban Board

A visual workflow management system that maps work items through defined stages (columns) with explicit limits on how much work can be in progress at once (WIP limits). Kanban makes bottlenecks visible, reduces context-s

1h–2h2–20Intermediate
Decision

Kano Model

Developed by Noriaki Kano, this model classifies product features by how they affect customer satisfaction. Features fall into five categories: Must-Be (expected, cause dissatisfaction if absent), One-Dimensional (more =

45m–2h2–20Intermediate
Facilitation

Keep Your Finger on the Pulse

This activity helps participants observe the physiological effects of stress by taking their pulse. By becoming aware of their heart rate, they can better understand how stress influences their body in real-time.

10m–15m5+Beginner
Facilitation

Knowledge Café

A structured conversation format created by David Gurteen that brings people together to have a meaningful conversation about a topic that matters. Unlike World Café, Knowledge Café has no table hosts — everyone moves fr

1h–2h10–60Intermediate
Facilitation

Lasting Impression Elevator Pitch

Participants create and practice a brief pitch that summarizes what they do, designed to leave a lasting impression. This exercise enhances communication skills and prepares individuals to concisely explain their roles a

20m–40m2–30Beginner
Facilitation

Leadership Advice from Your Role Model

This activity allows participants to share leadership wisdom by channeling the insights of their personal role models. It fosters an understanding of different approaches to leadership through collective discussion and r

20m–45m5–30Intermediate
Problem Solving

Leadership Envelopes

This activity helps participants apply abstract leadership principles to practical workplace behaviors. By working in teams, they translate these principles into real-life applications, fostering better understanding and

30m–2h6–30Beginner
Team Building

Leadership Pizza

This activity helps participants identify essential leadership skills, attributes, and attitudes through a self-assessment framework. The visual aid of a pizza allows individuals to reflect on their strengths and areas f

30mAnyBeginner
Facilitation

Lean Coffee

A structured but agenda-less meeting format developed by Jim Benson and Jeremy Lightsmith. Participants propose topics, vote on them democratically, and discuss the highest-priority topics in timeboxed slots. A simple Ka

30m–2h3–15Beginner
Retro

Learning Matrix

The Learning Matrix is a reflective exercise designed to evaluate past projects by identifying strengths, areas for improvement, new ideas, and appreciated team contributions. It encourages a balanced view of past work w

1h5–8Intermediate
Team Building

LEGO Challenge

This activity involves teams collaborating to build a LEGO structure while managing secret individual assignments. It highlights communication, leadership dynamics, and problem-solving skills among participants.

1h–2h10–40Intermediate
Ideation

Lego Serious Play

A facilitation methodology developed by LEGO Group and academics. Participants build 3D LEGO models in response to questions about strategy, identity, systems, or challenges, then use their models as metaphors to explain

2h–8h4–12Advanced
Team Building

Letter from the Future

This method helps teams create a shared vision for the future by imagining their ideal scenario five years from now. By writing letters from this future perspective, team members clarify their goals and expectations toge

1h–2h6–30Beginner
Facilitation

Letter to Myself

This exercise encourages participants to reflect on their learnings by writing a letter to their future selves. It emphasizes setting actionable goals and personal insights to promote accountability and future reflection

5m–30m2–40Beginner
Facilitation

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

1h–3h5–100Advanced
Problem Solving

Liberating Structures TRIZ

A Liberating Structure that uses creative destruction to help groups stop perpetuating counterproductive behaviours. Named after the Russian innovation methodology, LS TRIZ inverts the problem: 'What would we do if we wa

30m–1h5–100Intermediate
Problem Solving

Lightning Decision Jam (LDJ)

The Lightning Decision Jam helps teams quickly identify and address challenges by encouraging structured thinking and focused discussion. This method streamlines problem-solving to prevent aimless conversations and ensur

45m–2h4–10Intermediate
Ideation

Lightning Demos

Lightning Demos are quick presentations where team members share existing products or services that inspire their design ideas. This method helps spark creativity and provides useful reference points for future brainstor

1h–2h2–12Beginner
Energiser

Line-Up

Participants must arrange themselves in a line based on specific criteria without speaking. This activity enhances non-verbal communication skills and fosters teamwork.

5m–30m10–40Beginner
Problem Solving

Living Lab

A real-world testing environment where new solutions, services, or processes are tested with real users in their natural context, rather than in controlled lab settings. Originating in European innovation policy, Living

1h–8h3–30Advanced
icebreaker

Lo Tech Social Network

Lo Tech Social Network is a dynamic icebreaker that leverages visual thinking to help participants connect and engage. It is ideal for warming up groups that may be hesitant to participate, especially when they have some

15m–30m6+Beginner
icebreaker

Lo Tech Social Network at TEDx Austin

The Lo Tech Social Network is an engaging icebreaker designed to warm up groups and foster connections. Ideal for groups where at least half of the participants know each other, it allows for creative and humorous intera

15m–30m10+Beginner
relationship-building

Lo-Tech Social Network Explored

Lo-Tech Social Network Explored is a dynamic activity designed to uncover and visualize the connections within a team. It's ideal for groups of varying familiarity, fostering an understanding of shared interests and resp

30m10+Beginner
Ideation

Logo

Participants draw a logo or image that represents their vision, idea, or project. The visual constraint forces distillation of complex concepts to their essential nature, increases investment in shared work, and gives th

20m–40m2–30Intermediate
Energiser

Looking Around

This energiser helps participants experience the challenge of unlearning by following rapid directional prompts. It’s a simple activity requiring no materials and encourages everyone to engage physically and mentally.

6m–10m5+Beginner
Ideation

Lotus Blossom

A structured brainstorming technique developed by Yasuo Matsumura. Start with a central theme in the middle of a 3x3 grid. Generate 8 related ideas in the surrounding cells. Each of those 8 ideas then becomes the centre

30m–1h1–20Intermediate
relationship-building

Low-Tech Social Network

Low-Tech Social Network helps participants introduce themselves and visualize their connections by creating a large, interactive network mural. Ideal for large events, this method fosters relationship-building and uncove

25m10+Beginner
Retro

Mad Sad Glad

A simple retrospective format that invites participants to surface emotions from a recent period or project. By categorising experiences as Mad (frustrating), Sad (disappointing), or Glad (positive), teams open honest co

30m–45m3–20Beginner
Team Building

Magic Box

The Magic Box is a fun ice-breaking activity that helps participants share something personal while connecting to the workshop's theme. Each participant picks an object randomly and explains its significance, deepening i

1m–15m1–16Beginner
Ideation

Make A World

Make A World is an engaging method that encourages participants to visualize and construct a three-dimensional representation of a desired future state. It is particularly effective for brainstorming and aligning on a sh

45m–2h8–20Intermediate
Strategy

Manage What You Measure

Manage What You Measure is a strategic workshop method designed to link customer behaviors with high-level organizational objectives. It helps teams identify which customer actions most significantly impact company goals

30m–3h5–15Intermediate
Problem Solving

Managing behaviours

This method helps participants recognize and manage various behaviors during meetings. Through role-playing exercises, individuals can explore both constructive and destructive behaviors to improve future interactions.

1h–1h4–9Intermediate
Strategy

Mapping Business Models

Mapping Business Models is a strategic method using the Business Model Canvas to visualize and analyze a company's current or potential business models. This approach fosters a shared understanding and can lead to strate

15m1–6Intermediate
Strategy

Mapping Design Operations

Mapping Design Operations is a strategic exercise aimed at visualizing and understanding the role of Design Ops within an organization. It helps teams either map existing operations or conceptualize a new Design Ops fram

15m1–6Intermediate
Strategy

Mapping Organizational Culture

Mapping Organizational Culture is a strategic method used to assess and visually represent the current cultural dynamics within an organization. It helps identify behaviors, outcomes, and the enablers or blockers that im

15m–2h1–6Intermediate
Team Building

Marshmallow Challenge

Participants are divided into teams to construct the tallest free-standing structure using limited materials. This activity promotes teamwork, communication, and creative problem-solving skills.

30m–2h2–40Intermediate
Ideation

Mash-Up Innovation

Mash-Up Innovation is a collaborative technique where participants generate new ideas by combining different concepts. They brainstorm across various categories, such as technologies, human needs, and existing services,

1h–2h2–40Intermediate
relationship-building

Meeting Games

Meeting Games explores the implicit and explicit games that occur within workplace meetings, highlighting how understanding these dynamics can improve communication and productivity. It's useful for identifying unspoken

30m–1h4+Intermediate
relationship-building

Memory Wall

Memory Wall is a collaborative exercise designed to foster appreciation and camaraderie within a team by visually sharing positive memories. It is ideal for acknowledging contributions and celebrating team achievements.

45m–2h10–50Beginner
planning

Merrill Covey Matrix

The Merrill Covey Matrix is a prioritization tool designed to help teams assess the urgency and importance of tasks, thereby enhancing efficiency and focus. This method is particularly useful for structuring to-do lists

1h5–8Beginner
Facilitation

Metaphor Work

Metaphor Work is a facilitation technique that uses images, stories, and analogies to help groups engage with complex, sensitive, or emotionally charged material indirectly. When participants describe a situation as 'a s

20m–1h3–30Intermediate
Strategy

Min Specs

Min Specs is a strategic method used to streamline processes by identifying the essential rules that must be followed to achieve success. It helps groups eliminate unnecessary constraints, fostering innovation while main

6m4+Intermediate
Ideation

Mind map

A mind map visually organizes ideas and concepts, allowing you to explore relationships and structure information. This method helps in brainstorming and clarifying thoughts by connecting related themes.

30mAnyBeginner
Ideation

Mind Mapping

Popularised by Tony Buzan, a mind map is a radial diagram starting from a central concept, with branches extending outward representing related ideas, themes, and associations. Its non-linear structure mirrors how the br

15m–45m1–20Beginner
Ideation

MindSpin

MindSpin is a dynamic and energetic brainstorming method that encourages individual and group contributions. Participants generate a wide range of ideas quickly by writing them on index cards and physically engaging with

15m–30m5–15Intermediate
Coaching

Miracle Question

The Miracle Question is a solution-focused facilitation technique that invites participants to imagine a future in which the problem has already been solved — without analysing how that happened. Developed by Steve de Sh

20m–1h2–20Beginner
Facilitation

Miro / Digital Whiteboard Sprint

A structured approach to facilitating collaborative work sessions entirely in a digital whiteboard environment. Rather than replicating in-person workshops online, a Digital Whiteboard Sprint is designed from the ground

1h–4h2–30Intermediate
Ideation

Mood Board

Mood Board is a creative method used to visually capture the essence and feel of an idea. It's ideal for early project phases to inspire and align teams with a shared vision. Participants create a collage using various v

30m–2h1–10Beginner
Facilitation

MoSCoW

MoSCoW is a prioritization technique used to classify project features into four categories: 'Must have', 'Should have', 'Could have', and 'Would like but won't get'. This helps teams clarify what is essential for succes

2h–4hAnyBeginner
Decision

MoSCoW Method

A prioritisation framework dividing requirements or tasks into four categories: Must Have (non-negotiable), Should Have (important but not critical), Could Have (nice to have if time/resources allow), and Won't Have this

30m–2h2–20Beginner
Team Building

Moving Motivators

Developed by Jurgen Appelo, this Management 3.0 exercise uses ten motivation cards — Curiosity, Freedom, Goal, Honor, Mastery, Order, Power, Relatedness, Status, Acceptance — to help individuals and teams understand what

20m–45m1–20Beginner
Team Building

Myers-Briggs Team Reflection

Conduct a workshop where team members use the Myers-Briggs personality model to explore their own traits and improve interpersonal relationships. This process fosters better understanding within the team, enhancing both

1h–2h2–40Intermediate
Energiser

Name Game

This activity helps participants memorize each other's names in a fun and engaging way, perfect for the beginning of a workshop or meeting. It's a light-hearted exercise that encourages laughter and fosters a friendly at

5m–15m10–20Beginner
Strategy

Navigate your market opportunities

The 'Navigate your market opportunities' method helps teams identify, evaluate, and prioritize potential markets for their innovations. It is a strategic tool that encourages broad thinking beyond current customer bases

2h–48h1–6Advanced
Energiser

Near and Far

Near and Far is an engaging warm-up activity designed to foster connections among participants while exploring themes of corporate culture and dynamics. It encourages movement and interaction, making it ideal for varied

10m–20m10–50Beginner
Retro

Niko-Niko Calendar

A simple daily mood-tracking practice where each team member marks their mood at the end of each day on a shared calendar using coloured stickers or emojis. Over time, patterns emerge: chronically red Fridays, post-relea

1m–5m3–20Intermediate
Strategy

Nine Whys

The Nine Whys method helps groups uncover the core purpose of their work by repeatedly asking 'Why?' up to nine times. This technique clarifies motivations and aligns the team around a shared purpose, providing a foundat

20m4+Intermediate
Ideation

Nominal Group Technique

A structured brainstorming technique that solicits anonymous written contributions from all participants before any discussion. By collecting and randomly redistributing cards, it ensures every voice is heard equally — w

15m–30m4–30Intermediate
Facilitation

Non-Violent Communication

Developed by Marshall Rosenberg, Non-Violent Communication (NVC) is a communication framework for expressing needs and resolving conflict compassionately. It has four components: Observations (what I actually observed, w

30m–2h2–20Intermediate
Facilitation

Novice or Expert?

This method helps participants experience the contrast between learning styles. They will understand the challenges of using a weak learning style and the advantages of utilizing a stronger one.

50m–1h20–30Advanced
Decision

NUF Test

The NUF Test is a decision-making tool used to evaluate ideas based on how New, Useful, and Feasible they are. This method is ideal for quickly assessing the viability of ideas generated during brainstorming sessions.

15m–30m3+Intermediate
Ideation

Object Brainstorm

Object Brainstorm leverages tangible items to spark creativity and generate innovative ideas. By interacting with physical objects, participants can explore new possibilities and associations, making it a powerful tool f

30m1+Intermediate
Strategy

OGSM Framework

A strategic planning framework from Procter & Gamble and Unilever. OGSM stands for: Objective (the qualitative destination), Goals (specific quantitative targets that define success), Strategies (the choices about how to

2h–3h3–15Intermediate
facilitation-techniques

OKR Check-in

A lightweight weekly or bi-weekly ritual where teams briefly review progress on their Key Results, update confidence levels, surface blockers, and decide if course corrections are needed. Check-ins prevent OKRs from beco

20m–45m2–10Intermediate
Strategy

OKR Planning Session

A structured facilitated session for a team or organisation to define their Objectives and Key Results for the upcoming quarter or year. Well-run OKR sessions produce ambitious but achievable objectives, measurable key r

2h–4h3–15Intermediate
Strategy

OKR Workshop

A structured workshop for setting Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) — a goal-setting framework popularised by Intel and Google. An Objective is qualitative, inspiring, and directional ('Become the go-to tool for enterpri

2h–3h3–15Intermediate
Facilitation

One breath feedback

This method gathers feedback in a concise manner, allowing each participant to share their thoughts during a single breath, typically lasting around 20-25 seconds. It helps maintain focus and energy during closing discus

5m–15m2–20Beginner
Facilitation

One Word Check-In

A simple opening ritual where each participant shares a single word that captures how they are feeling or what they are bringing to the session. The constraint of one word prevents lengthy monologues while still giving e

5m–15m2–50Beginner
Ideation

One Word Method

Participants collaboratively construct a sentence by contributing one word at a time related to a chosen topic. This approach encourages creativity, fosters group bonding, and provides a relaxed atmosphere for sharing id

2m4–8Beginner
Facilitation

Open Questions

A facilitation micro-skill and deliberate practice: crafting and using open questions that generate exploration rather than close down thinking. Open questions begin with What, How, Who, Where, When — never Why (which ca

10m–30m1–50Beginner
Facilitation

Open Questions – Role Play

This activity uses a literary extract to enhance communication skills through role play. Participants will practice using open questions, fostering active listening and observation skills in a collaborative setting.

5m–10m4–12Intermediate
planning

Open Space

Open Space is a dynamic facilitation method ideal for large groups without a predefined agenda. Participants create the agenda themselves, fostering self-organization and engagement. This approach is particularly effecti

2h5+Intermediate
Ideation

Open Space Technology

Open Space Technology is a dynamic facilitation method that empowers large groups to self-organize around complex challenges. It allows participants to co-create the agenda and take responsibility for addressing issues t

1h10+Advanced
Facilitation

ORID Focused Conversation

Developed by the Institute of Cultural Affairs (ICA), the ORID method structures a conversation through four levels: Objective (observable facts), Reflective (emotional responses), Interpretive (meaning and implications)

20m–1h2–30Intermediate
Decision

Our Group's Motto

The group collaboratively develops a shared motto or slogan short enough to fit on a bumper sticker. The motto should capture the group's core values, ultimate goal, and motivating spirit — and serve as a rallying point

1h–2h4–20Intermediate
Strategy

Pain-Gain Map

The Pain-Gain Map is a strategic tool used to explore the motivations and decisions of a key individual, such as a customer or organizational leader. By mapping out this person's challenges and aspirations, teams can bet

15m3–10Intermediate
Problem Solving

Paired walk

A paired walk helps build trust and mutual understanding while preparing for difficult conversations. It energizes participants and creates a relaxed atmosphere, making it ideal for conflict resolution discussions. Ensur

15m–30m2+Beginner
Strategy

Panarchy

Panarchy is a strategic method that helps participants understand the complex interdependencies within systems to foster innovation and change. It allows groups to visualize how different system levels interact, identify

2h4+Advanced
Facilitation

Parking Lot

A facilitation tool for capturing off-topic ideas, questions, or tangents without derailing the main discussion. A designated area — the 'parking lot' — is visible to all. Items parked there are acknowledged as valid but

1m–5m2–50Beginner
Problem Solving

Participants from Hell

This activity helps participants identify ways to manage disruptive behaviors during training. Teams will analyze different types of disruptive participants and collaboratively develop strategies to handle them.

20m–45m3–60Beginner
Ideation

Party Invitations

Party Invitations is a creative ideation exercise where participants design a metaphorical invitation for a product or service, imagining it as a party. This method is ideal for enhancing the onboarding process by genera

30m–1h5–30Intermediate
Energiser

Pass the Stone

This activity engages participants in a fun way to demonstrate teamwork and strategy through observation and communication. Teams will try to determine the location of a stone being passed between members, fostering inte

10m–15m10–30Beginner
Ideation

Pecha Kucha

Pecha Kucha is a presentation method that encourages teams to collaboratively generate ideas using visual storytelling. Each group creates a series of images paired with their narrative, presenting their story succinctly

3h26–50Intermediate
Ideation

Pecha Kucha/Ignite

Pecha Kucha and Ignite are dynamic presentation formats designed to deliver concise and engaging talks. Each presenter uses a set number of slides, with limited time per slide, ensuring a fast-paced and focused delivery.

1h–4h1+Intermediate
Facilitation

Peer Coaching Circle

A structured peer learning format where a small group of practitioners support each other's professional development through structured consultation rounds. One person brings a real challenge (the 'client'), others take

1h–2h4–8Intermediate
Problem Solving

Persona Development

A design research tool for creating realistic, composite representations of key user groups based on research data. A persona includes a name, photo, background, goals, frustrations, behaviours, and quotes. Good personas

2h–3h2–12Intermediate
planning

Personal Kanban

Personal Kanban is a visual tool for organizing tasks to enhance efficiency and productivity. It's ideal for individuals or teams looking to manage their workload in a clear and structured manner.

10m–15m1+Beginner
Problem Solving

Personal Strengths Matrix

This exercise helps participants identify and share their strengths and weaknesses with one another before starting a group project. Establishing this understanding fosters better collaboration and conflict resolution am

45m4+Beginner
Facilitation

Personal SWOB Assessment

This workshop provides a structured approach for participants to evaluate their personal growth using the SWOB framework: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Barriers. Participants will identify key areas for their

1h–2h2–40Intermediate
Facilitation

Personal SWOT

An adaptation of the classic SWOT framework for personal or professional development. Applied to an individual rather than an organisation: Strengths (what am I naturally good at?), Weaknesses (where do I hold myself bac

30m–1h1–20Beginner
Strategy

PESTLE Analysis

A structured environmental scanning tool for analysing the macro-level factors affecting an organisation or project. PESTLE stands for: Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Legal, Environmental. It ensures teams c

45m–2h3–20Beginner
Facilitation

Photo Check-In

Participants select an image from a collection that resonates with how they feel, what they expect from the session, or their current state. They then briefly explain their choice. The visual element bypasses verbal defe

10m–20m3–40Beginner
planning

Pie Chart Agenda

The Pie Chart Agenda is a quick and flexible method for structuring a meeting by visually organizing time allocation for each topic. Ideal for ad hoc meetings, it helps teams focus on key issues within time constraints.

1m–2m2+Beginner
Decision

Planning Poker

A consensus-based estimation technique used by agile teams. Each team member uses a deck of cards with Fibonacci-sequence numbers to estimate the effort or complexity of a user story. Simultaneous card reveal prevents an

30m–2h2–10Beginner
feedback

Plus/Delta

Plus/Delta is a feedback method designed to generate constructive insights by focusing on what went well and what could be improved. It encourages participants to reflect on positive aspects and propose changes for futur

10m–45m1+Beginner
Problem Solving

Point of View Statement

A structured problem framing technique from the Stanford d.school design thinking process. A POV statement combines a user archetype, their need, and an unexpected insight into a single reframeable sentence: '[User] need

30m–1h2–12Intermediate
Problem Solving

Post The Path

Post The Path is a facilitation method designed to diagnose a group's understanding of a process by mapping it visually. It helps uncover areas of confusion and differing perceptions without creating a new process.

30m–1h2–10Intermediate
Ideation

Post-Up

Post-Up is a silent brainstorming technique where participants write ideas on sticky notes to encourage individual thought before group discussion. It's ideal for generating a wide range of ideas quickly and ensuring eac

10m–1h1–50Beginner
Ideation

Poster Session

The Poster Session method encourages participants to condense their ideas into visual summaries, fostering quick understanding and engagement. It's ideal for large groups to present diverse ideas without lengthy explanat

20m10–100Intermediate
Facilitation

Powerpoint Karaoke

Powerpoint Karaoke is an engaging game where participants present slides they have never seen before. This fun and spontaneous activity fosters communication skills and team bonding.

45m–1h15+Beginner
Decision

Pre-Mortem

Developed by psychologist Gary Klein, the Pre-Mortem asks teams to imagine that a project has already failed — then work backwards to identify what went wrong. By adopting a future failure mindset before starting, teams

30m–1h3–20Intermediate
Facilitation

Principles of Effective Feedback

This method helps participants explore and define effective feedback principles through discussion and collaboration. By sharing experiences, they identify characteristics of constructive and less effective feedback, fos

1h–2h2–40Intermediate
Decision

Prioritization (N/3)

A lightweight prioritisation technique that gives each participant a fixed number of 'priority votes' (total items ÷ 3 or 4) to place on a visible list. Unlike voting, participants can stack all their votes on one item o

15m–30m4–30Intermediate
Decision

Pro/Con List

The Pro/Con List is a classic decision-making tool that helps individuals or groups weigh the positive and negative aspects of a decision. It's particularly useful when clarity is needed to resolve complex issues by visu

15m–1h1+Beginner
Ideation

Problem Definition

This method helps participants define a problem or opportunity and brainstorm potential solutions. It encourages a shift in perspective to view challenges as chances for innovation.

3h–4h26–50Advanced
Ideation

Product Pinocchio

Product Pinocchio is a creative exercise that personifies a product or service to explore and develop its features. By imagining the product as a living character, teams can uncover innovative ideas that enhance the prod

1h5–20Intermediate
feedback

Project Jeopardy

Project Jeopardy transforms mundane project status reports into an engaging and interactive game. This method encourages active participation and ensures that everyone is attentive and informed about the project's progre

15m4–40Intermediate
Facilitation

Project Mid-way Evaluation

This method helps teams assess their ongoing project to identify necessary improvements for better collaboration. It encourages open discussion about what is working well and what might need adjustment.

30m–1h2–10Intermediate
Problem Solving

Project Point of Departure

This method helps individuals and teams outline the framework, goals, and initial steps for their project. Participants will answer a series of focused questions, capturing the insights in a shareable digital format.

30m–2h2–10Beginner
Strategy

Prune The Future

Prune The Future uses the metaphor of a tree to help groups visualize and shape future possibilities. It is particularly useful in strategic planning sessions where incremental changes and future growth need to be mapped

30m5–15Intermediate
planning

Purpose-To-Practice (P2P)

Purpose-To-Practice (P2P) is a structured approach to collaboratively design initiatives by defining five key elements: purpose, principles, participants, structure, and practices. Use this method to engage stakeholders

1h4+Intermediate
Ideation

Quaker Conversation

Quaker Conversation is a structured method designed to ensure all voices in a group are heard equally, preventing dominant personalities from overshadowing quieter members. It is particularly useful for gathering diverse

30m4+Beginner
feedback

Question Balloons

Question Balloons is a dynamic feedback method that allows participants to 'float' questions during a session, providing a visual and interactive way to manage inquiries. This technique helps maintain engagement and ensu

30m4–40Intermediate
Energiser

Questions Only

This fun improvisation game helps participants engage creatively and energizes the group. It can serve as an icebreaker and generate laughter while promoting quick thinking.

5m–20m2+Beginner
Facilitation

Quick Change

This opening activity engages participants in recognizing change by making quick, personal modifications. It connects the theme of change to personal experience, making the topic more relatable.

10mAnyBeginner
Facilitation

Quick-Change Artists

This activity helps participants explore qualities that enable adaptability and resilience in times of change. By reflecting on individuals who handle change well or struggle with it, participants can identify key factor

20m–45m6–50Beginner
Energiser

Quotes

This activity helps participants connect and share insights by discussing meaningful quotes. It encourages conversation and fosters a sense of familiarity within the group.

15m–45m10+Beginner
Facilitation

RACI Matrix

A RACI Matrix clarifies roles and responsibilities within a project by identifying who is Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, and Informed for each task. This structured approach helps reduce ambiguity and ensures every

1h–2h2–6Intermediate
Ideation

Random Word

A lateral thinking technique developed by Edward de Bono. A random, unrelated word is introduced into a brainstorming session to break habitual thinking patterns. Participants are forced to make unexpected connections be

20m–40m1–20Beginner
Ideation

Rapid Prototyping

The practice of building quick, cheap, tangible representations of ideas to test assumptions and generate feedback before investing in development. Rapid prototyping embraces imperfection deliberately — the goal is to fa

30m–2h2–12Intermediate
Ideation

Rapid Research

This exercise helps participants gather insights from people outside their group, enhancing brainstorming and creative processes. It's ideal for developing new products, strategies, or obtaining valuable feedback.

5m–30m2–40Beginner
feedback

Red:Green Cards

Red:Green Cards is a feedback method designed to facilitate quick and clear communication of approval or disagreement in large group settings. Participants use colored cards to visually express their stance on a topic, e

1m20+Beginner
Facilitation

Reflection: Individual

This method enables individuals to break down complex experiences, identify successes, and learn from failures. It provides a structured process for self-reflection that can be adapted to various contexts.

30m–1h2–10Intermediate
Coaching

Reframing

Reframing is a facilitation technique that offers a new interpretive frame for a behaviour, situation, or concern — revealing its hidden logic or positive function. Resistance becomes a protective signal; perfectionism b

15m–45m2–30Intermediate
icebreakers

Relationship Bank Account

A reflective exercise that helps participants understand how everyday actions make deposits or withdrawals from the 'relationship bank accounts' they hold with colleagues. Through a series of scenarios, participants scor

30m–45m4–30Intermediate
Ideation

Remote Note and Vote

This method helps groups generate ideas quickly in a digital format, allowing for individual contributions and collective voting. It transforms ideas into actionable 'how might we' statements, facilitating a clear direct

15mAnyBeginner
Facilitation

Remote pencil pitch

This fun improv activity enhances your team's pitching abilities in a remote setting. Participants will practice their creativity and presentation skills while engaging with unusual objects showcased in a slide deck.

15m2–20Beginner
Facilitation

Remote Sail Boat

Use the sailboat metaphor to help teams identify what drives them forward and what holds them back. Participants visualize their organization's challenges and strengths, leading to constructive discussions about improvem

20m–30m5–10Beginner
Energiser

Remote: Change 3 things

This quick energizer invites participants to engage and observe one another, fostering connection in a virtual setting. It's a lighthearted way to improve focus and interaction during online sessions.

5mAnyIntermediate
Coaching

Resource Orientation

Resource Orientation is a solution-focused facilitation approach that deliberately redirects attention from problems to existing strengths, capabilities, and exceptions. Rather than asking 'What's wrong and why?', it ask

20m–50m2–30Beginner
Facilitation

Retrospective Prime Directive

A short ritual created by Norm Kerth that is read aloud at the start of any retrospective. The Prime Directive states: 'Regardless of what we discover, we understand and truly believe that everyone did the best job they

5m–10m2–50Beginner
Problem Solving

Rich Pictures

A soft systems methodology tool developed by Peter Checkland. A Rich Picture is an informal, hand-drawn illustration of a complex situation — including people, processes, structures, conflicts, relationships, and feeling

30m–1h1–20Beginner
Energiser

Rock, Paper, Scissors (Tournament)

This energizer turns the classic game of Rock, Paper, Scissors into a lively tournament. Players cheer for their winning partners, creating a fun atmosphere as they compete in escalating rounds until a champion is declar

5m–10mAnyBeginner
facilitation-techniques

Role Cards

Participants are assigned specific discussion roles (e.g. spokesperson, devil's advocate, notetaker) via cards, then switch roles partway through. The structure balances participation — drawing out quieter members and re

20m–1h4–20Intermediate
Facilitation

Role Playing

A learning and exploration technique where participants take on assigned roles and act out scenarios. Role playing develops empathy, communication skills, and behavioural flexibility by letting people experience situatio

20m–1h2–30Intermediate
Team Building

Rollercoaster Check-In

This method helps participants express their feelings in a fun, visual way using the metaphor of a rollercoaster. It's an effective way to gauge the emotional state of the group at the start of a meeting, creating a shar

5m–1h2–40Beginner
Decision

Roman Voting

The simplest possible group voting technique: thumbs up (yes), thumbs sideways (neutral/can live with it), or thumbs down (no/block). Named after the Roman gladiatorial arena gesture, it's used for rapid, simultaneous po

2m–10m2–100Beginner
Retro

Rose Bud Thorn

A simple reflection tool using a plant metaphor. Roses represent positives and successes, Thorns represent challenges and pain points, and Buds represent emerging opportunities or ideas not yet fully developed. It works

20m–40m2–30Beginner
Problem Solving

Rotating Flip Charts

This method facilitates idea sharing and feedback among breakout groups. Each group reviews another's work sequentially, ensuring everyone provides and receives constructive feedback, leading to enhanced collaboration an

15m26–50Intermediate
Facilitation

Round Robin

A structured turn-taking technique where each person contributes once before anyone contributes a second time. It ensures every voice is heard, prevents dominant voices from crowding out quieter participants, and creates

5m–30m3–20Beginner
Strategy

SAFE-BOLD Framework

The SAFE-BOLD Framework is a strategic tool used to create compelling pitches by evaluating ideas across four dimensions: Scale, Risk, Innovativeness, and Difficulty. It's designed to help teams craft pitches that not on

1h5–8Intermediate
Retro

Sailboat Retrospective

A visual retrospective technique using the metaphor of a sailboat at sea. The boat represents the team, wind represents what drives progress, anchors represent what slows the team down, rocks represent upcoming risks, an

45m–1h3–20Beginner
Coaching

Scaling Questions

Scaling Questions is a solution-focused facilitation technique that uses a simple 1–10 scale to make subjective, intangible experiences concrete and discussable. Instead of debating abstract positions, participants locat

10m–30m2–50Beginner
Ideation

SCAMPER

A structured creativity checklist where each letter prompts a different angle of attack on an existing product, service, or process: Substitute, Combine, Adapt, Modify/Magnify, Put to other uses, Eliminate, Reverse/Rearr

30m–1h1–20Beginner
Strategy

Scenario Planning

A strategic planning method developed at Royal Dutch Shell that helps organisations prepare for multiple possible futures. Rather than predicting the future, scenario planning constructs three to four plausible, distinct

2h–4h4–20Advanced
Problem Solving

Scenario Slider

Scenario Slider is a problem-solving exercise designed to test ideas by modeling them under various extreme scenarios using predefined variables. It is particularly useful after generating ideas to explore different impl

1h–2h6+Intermediate
Problem Solving

Scrummen

Scrummen helps teams track tasks across multiple projects by categorizing them into 'To Do,' 'In Process,' and 'Done.' This method fosters collaborative work by breaking down large assignments into manageable chunks and

30m–2hAnyBeginner
facilitation-techniques

Sculptures

One participant acts as a 'sculptor' who positions other group members into a static scene that represents a situation or dynamic. The resulting human tableau is then interpreted and discussed by the observers, revealing

20m–40m4–20Intermediate
Strategy

Service Blueprint

A service design tool that maps the full delivery of a service — from the customer's visible experience (frontstage) to the invisible backstage processes, systems, and support that enable it. Service blueprints reveal th

2h–4h3–12Intermediate
Facilitation

Seven Words

Seven Words illustrates how the emphasis on different words can change the meaning of a sentence. Facilitators use this technique to demonstrate the impact of word stress and invite participants to explore interpretation

3m–5m2+Beginner
Energiser

Shake Down

Shake Down is a quick and active energizer where participants shake each limb to release energy and improve focus. This physical activity engages the entire group and helps to create a lively atmosphere.

5m–30m10–40Beginner
Ideation

Shift & Share

Shift & Share is a dynamic method for sharing innovations within an organization or community. Presenters set up stations to share concise insights with small rotating groups, fostering direct interaction and collaborati

2h10+Intermediate
Facilitation

Shift and Share

Shift and Share enables participants to discover and discuss innovative ideas quickly by connecting them with various presenters. This method eliminates lengthy presentations and fosters informal exchanges around valuabl

2h10+Intermediate
relationship-building

Show and Tell

Show and Tell is a method that encourages participants to share personal artifacts that symbolize their perspectives on a given topic. This technique is ideal for gaining deeper insights into stakeholder views and foster

30m–1h3+Beginner
relationship-building

Show Me Your Values

Show Me Your Values is a workshop method designed to uncover the perceived values within an organization or initiative. Participants use images from magazines to visually represent these values and share related personal

30m–45m5–10Intermediate
Ideation

Silent Discussion

Participants explore a topic together in complete silence — writing, drawing, connecting ideas with lines, and building on each other's contributions on a shared sheet of poster paper. The silence levels hierarchy, inclu

15m–30m4–30Intermediate
Facilitation

Silent Sorting

A non-verbal group sorting exercise where participants collaboratively arrange items — ideas, priorities, options — in order of importance or sequence, without speaking. The silence removes dominant voices from the proce

10m–25m3–20Beginner
Ideation

Simple Ethnography

Simple Ethnography allows participants to uncover innovative solutions by observing and engaging with individuals who have firsthand experience with the challenge at hand. This method helps to identify hidden routines an

5m1+Intermediate
Ideation

Six Thinking Hats

Created by Edward de Bono, this framework directs the group to wear six metaphorical 'thinking hats', each representing a different mode of thinking. White = facts and data; Red = emotions and gut feeling; Black = critic

45m–2h2–20Intermediate
Energiser

Six Word Story

Inspired by Hemingway's legendary six-word story ('For sale: baby shoes, never worn'), this exercise asks participants to capture something meaningful — their team's challenge, their vision, their user's experience — in

10m–20m2–100Beginner
facilitation-techniques

Sliding Groups

A discussion format that deliberately slides the group structure up and down — from individual reflection to pairs, fours, and whole-group discussion, then back down again. The accordion-like movement ensures both deep i

30m–1h6–40Intermediate
Team Building

Snowball

This activity energizes participants while helping them learn about each other in a fun way. Participants will engage in movement and interaction, making it a playful addition to any gathering.

20m–40m8–50Beginner
Strategy

Social Network Mapping

A diagnostic method for visualising informal communication, collaboration, and influence networks within an organisation or community — revealing the hidden structure that sits beneath the formal org chart. Who actually

1h–2h5–100Advanced
relationship-building

Social Network Webbing

Social Network Webbing helps groups visualize and enhance their existing network of relationships. This method uncovers hidden resources and identifies opportunities for stronger connections, fostering a self-organizing,

45m–1h2+Intermediate
Problem Solving

Social Virus

This exercise demonstrates how emotions can spread amongst group members, both negatively and positively. Participants will simulate the transmission of negative expressions to experience the impact of emotions on group

10m–15m10+Beginner
Energiser

Sociometric Exploration

A physical mapping technique from psychodrama where people position themselves in space to reveal social and relational structures within a group. Unlike surveys, the physical positioning makes connections visible to eve

15m–30m8–50Beginner
Energiser

Soft skills Engagement Game

This activity encourages participants to engage in conversations while practicing active listening skills. It promotes fun and interaction, helping to build community among group members.

1m–10mAnyBeginner
Team Building

Sound Ball

Sound Ball is an energizing icebreaker that enhances teamwork and encourages spontaneity. Participants stand in a circle and throw an imaginary ball while making sounds, helping them focus on listening and engaging with

10m–30m5–50Beginner
Energiser

Spaghetti Tower

A team challenge popularised by Tom Wujec where small groups have 18 minutes to build the tallest freestanding structure that can support a marshmallow on top — using only spaghetti, tape, and string. Despite its simplic

30m–45m8–60Beginner
Facilitation

Spectrogram

A physical polling technique where participants position themselves along a line in the room based on their degree of agreement with a statement. One end = strongly agree, the other = strongly disagree. Similar to Conste

15m–30m5–60Beginner
Ideation

Spectrum Mapping

Spectrum Mapping is a method used to visualize the range of perspectives within a group on a specific topic by organizing them into a continuum. It allows participants to express their views non-verbally, fostering an in

30m–1h5–15Intermediate
Problem Solving

Speed Boat

The Speed Boat method helps teams identify obstacles that hinder progress towards a goal or the development of a product or service. By using a metaphorical boat with anchors, participants can visually represent and disc

30m5–10Beginner
Retro

Speed Car Retrospective

A visual retrospective using a racing car metaphor. The car represents the team — the engine is what drives them forward (strengths and energisers), the parachute is what slows them down (impediments), the road is the pa

45m–1h4–20Intermediate
Energiser

Spoons - A lateral thinking game

This activity boosts group energy by encouraging creative thinking and engagement. It works well after intense work sessions and provides a playful break.

10m–15m6–12Intermediate
Facilitation

Spread the Word

This technique helps participants reinforce their understanding of a presentation by summarizing key points for different audience types. It encourages collaboration and deeper comprehension of the material presented.

30m–1h4+Intermediate
Facilitation

Sprint Planning

The Scrum ceremony that kicks off each sprint. The team selects items from the top of the product backlog, commits to a sprint goal, and creates a sprint backlog of tasks to achieve it. Effective sprint planning produces

2h–4h3–10Intermediate
Retro

Sprint Review

A Scrum ceremony held at the end of each Sprint where the team demonstrates the working increment to stakeholders and collects feedback. Unlike a status report, the Sprint Review is a collaborative working session — stak

30m–1h3–30Intermediate
Energiser

Spy

Engage participants in a lively, interactive game that boosts energy and relieves tension. This activity is great for revitalizing the group after a long session or a break.

3m–5m8–15Beginner
Problem Solving

SQUID

SQUID, or Sequential Question and Insight Diagram, helps groups map out and navigate complex information spaces by capturing questions and answers on sticky notes. This method is ideal for exploring topics thoroughly and

30m2+Intermediate
Strategy

Stakeholder Map

A strategic tool for identifying, categorising, and planning engagement with all people and groups affected by or influential in a project or change. The classic format is a 2x2 matrix with axes of Power (influence over

30m–1h2–15Beginner
Problem Solving

Stakeholder's View

Participants engage in a dialogue while assuming the perspectives of various stakeholders with conflicting interests. This method deepens understanding of different positions related to societal problems, enhancing empat

2h20+Intermediate
Retro

Starfish Retrospective

A five-pointed retrospective framework introduced by Patrick Kua. Each point of the starfish asks a distinct question: Keep Doing (what's working well), More Of (increase something positive), Less Of (reduce something un

40m–1h3–20Beginner
feedback

Start, Stop, Continue

Start, Stop, Continue is a straightforward feedback method that helps teams evaluate their actions and develop clear next steps. It's effective for reflecting on processes or planning future initiatives.

10m–1h1–10Beginner
feedback

Status Center

The Status Center method transforms traditional status meetings by adopting engaging TV broadcast formats. This approach uses short, dynamic segments to deliver updates, making meetings more interactive and enjoyable.

30m–4h4–40Intermediate
Problem Solving

Stinky Fish

This engaging activity encourages participants to share their fears and uncertainties related to the program theme. By articulating these thoughts, the group fosters openness and begins addressing concerns together.

15m–30m2–40Beginner
Strategy

Story Mapping

Developed by Jeff Patton, a User Story Map arranges user stories spatially to reveal the full scope of a product or feature and enable intelligent slicing. The horizontal axis represents the user's journey (activities an

2h–4h3–12Intermediate
Ideation

Storyboard

Storyboard is a versatile method for visualizing and narrating an ideal future scenario through sequential images and text. It is particularly effective for visioning exercises, allowing participants to creatively explor

45m–2h8–20Intermediate
Team Building

Strength Building Exercise

This exercise helps participants recognize their strengths and achievements, which enhances self-esteem and trust within a team. It fosters deeper connections among team members and builds camaraderie through shared expe

15m4+Intermediate
Team Building

Strength Envelopes

This activity enables team members to recognize and share their individual strengths while enhancing team engagement. Participants will learn how to structure their contributions based on strengths highlighted by their p

40m–1h5–40Beginner
Problem Solving

Strengths Game

This activity helps team members identify and understand their strengths and weaknesses. Participants reflect on their qualities and share them with others, fostering better collaboration within the team.

1h4+Beginner
Energiser

Stress Balls

This energizer emphasizes the value of communication, teamwork, and feedback through a simple and engaging activity. Participants will quickly learn to work together under pressure while passing a stress ball in a circle

10m–15m5+Beginner
Energiser

Super-hero snap

This energiser boosts creativity and teamwork by having participants visualize their unique contributions as superheroes. By drawing and sharing their superpowers, team members gain insight into each other's strengths, f

10m–20mAnyBeginner
Strategy

SWOT Analysis

SWOT Analysis is a strategic tool used to identify and evaluate the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats related to an organization or project. It is ideal for assessing the current positioning and future po

1h–2h5–20Intermediate
Energiser

Sync Claps

Sync Claps is an engaging activity designed to enhance focus and alignment within a group. Participants form a circle and pass a clap around, gradually increasing speed and complexity to foster connection and attentivene

5m–30m10–40Intermediate
Ideation

Synesthesia

Synesthesia is a creative ideation exercise that encourages participants to explore ideas through the lens of the five senses. This method helps uncover new perspectives and insights by engaging participants in sensory r

15m–45m2–5Intermediate
Facilitation

Systemic Constellations

Systemic Constellations (Aufstellungen) is a somatic and spatial facilitation method in which participants physically position themselves — or objects and symbols — to represent the relationships, dynamics, and tensions

30m–2h6–40Advanced
Decision

T-Shirt Sizing

A lightweight relative estimation technique where backlog items are sized using T-shirt sizes (XS through XL) instead of story points or hours. It removes the false precision of numeric estimation, encourages discussion

30m–2h3–12Intermediate
Energiser

Take a Picture of Your Shoes

Engage your team with a fun and light-hearted activity where they share insights about themselves through their footwear. This energiser promotes connection and conversation, making it a great addition to your session.

5m–15m5–30Beginner
relationship-building

Talking Chips

Talking Chips is a method designed to manage group discussions by ensuring balanced participation. Each participant uses a 'chip' as a token to speak, promoting equal opportunity to contribute and curbing dominant voices

30m–1h4–12Beginner
Facilitation

Talking Stick

An ancient practice adapted for contemporary facilitation: only the person holding a physical object (the 'talking stick') may speak. Everyone else listens. The stick passes around the circle. It slows the conversation,

10m–1h3–20Beginner
Team Building

Team Canvas

The Team Canvas is a visual tool that helps teams clarify their goals, values, and roles. It's useful for aligning team members on shared objectives and fostering collaboration.

2h–3h2–8Intermediate
Team Building

Team Canvas

A structured alignment tool developed by Alex Ivanov that helps teams get on the same page about purpose, roles, goals, values, and working rules. Modelled on the Business Model Canvas, it makes team dynamics explicit an

1h–2h3–12Intermediate
Problem Solving

Team Charter

The Team Charter method helps participants reflect on their strengths and weaknesses. This awareness fosters better collaboration and allows team members to support each other effectively during group work.

30m–2h2+Beginner
Retro

Team Health Check

Popularised by Spotify, the Team Health Check is a regular ritual where teams self-assess across key dimensions of healthy team functioning (e.g. 'Suitable Process', 'Teamwork', 'Delivering Value', 'Morale', 'Learning').

30m–1h3–15Beginner
Team Building

Team of Two

This method focuses on improving interpersonal relationships within professional settings. Participants identify ways to support each other, fostering collaboration and understanding.

20m2+Intermediate
Team Building

Team Self-Assessment

This method helps teams examine their collaborative processes by reflecting individually and collectively. It encourages open dialogue and honest assessments to identify strengths and areas for improvement in teamwork.

1h–2h2–10Intermediate
Team Building

Telling Our Stories

This method facilitates trust and openness among team members through structured storytelling. Participants reflect on personal experiences, sharing insights from their past to strengthen relationships in the team.

1h–2h2–40Advanced
Problem Solving

Temperature Check

Temperature Check helps visualise the feelings and opinions within a group. This activity encourages everyone to express their sentiments, making sure all voices are visible and acknowledged.

20m–45m4+Intermediate
Facilitation

Terrible Presents

This activity helps participants practice persuasive communication by analyzing what others appreciate and applying that understanding. They will create convincing arguments for gifts that the recipient would not want, r

10m–20m2–5Intermediate
Facilitation

Thankfulness Tree

The Thankfulness Tree activity encourages participants to reflect on what they are grateful for, creating a visual representation in the space. This method helps build connections among participants and can serve as a cl

5m–15m2+Beginner
Problem Solving

The 5 Whys

The 5 Whys method helps teams uncover the root cause of a problem by repeatedly asking 'why?' This technique encourages deeper analysis and understanding, leading to more sustainable solutions.

30m–1h5–10Beginner
Problem Solving

The Blind Side

The Blind Side is a facilitation method designed to reveal and address blind spots within a team or organization. By categorizing knowledge into knowns and unknowns, participants can uncover hidden insights and areas for

30m–45m5–15Intermediate
Ideation

The Journalistic Six - Who What When Where Why How

This method utilizes six essential questions to develop and explore ideas comprehensively. By addressing who, what, when, where, why, and how, participants dive deep into their topic, encouraging diverse viewpoints and t

30m1+Intermediate
Strategy

The Pitch

The Pitch is a role-playing exercise that simulates a pitch to venture capitalists. It encourages participants to focus on the feasibility and viability of their ideas by distilling them into compelling pitches.

30m–2h4–12Intermediate
Ideation

The Six Thinking Hats

The Six Thinking Hats method encourages groups to explore different perspectives on a topic by wearing metaphorical 'hats' that represent distinct styles of thinking. This structured approach helps teams think collaborat

10m–30m8+Beginner
Ideation

The Thing from the Future

This method encourages participants to envision their desired future by creating fictional objects. By using imaginative items and storytelling, groups can generate rich discussions that pave the way for effective vision

1h–2h3–12Advanced
Facilitation

Think-Pair-Share

A structured discussion technique from educational practice. Participants first think individually about a question (Think), then discuss with a partner (Pair), then share insights with the larger group (Share). It ensur

10m–20m4–100Beginner
Facilitation

Thirty-five for Debriefing

This activity helps participants reflect on a past experience and extract key lessons. It encourages structured sharing that focuses on meaningful takeaways from previous sessions.

15m–30m10+Intermediate
Retro

Timeline Retrospective

A retrospective technique that reconstructs the shared history of a team or project on a visual timeline. Participants add events, milestones, emotions, and learnings at the points when they happened. This builds a colle

45m–2h3–20Intermediate
Energiser

Touch Blue

Touch Blue is a fun energizer that gets participants moving and sharing. Facilitators call out attributes, and participants find objects that match, all while fostering connection and engagement.

5m–15mAnyBeginner
Facilitation

Tower of Power

In this activity, participants collaborate to build a tower using wooden blocks and a crane. They must communicate effectively and plan together to accomplish the task while following specific rules, which fosters teamwo

20m–1h6–24Intermediate
icebreaker

Trading Cards

Trading Cards is an interactive icebreaker that allows participants to express unique aspects of their personalities in a creative way. This method is ideal for warming up a group by encouraging personal expression and s

10m–15m5+Beginner
Decision

Traffic Light

Participants use colour-coded cards (red = no/stop, yellow = maybe/slow down, green = yes/go) to respond to ideas, proposals, or statements simultaneously. The visual display of cards makes the group's collective positio

15m–30m4–40Intermediate
Facilitation

TRASH: Goal-setting Simulation

This interactive simulation helps participants explore the importance of setting clear performance goals. Throughout six rounds, participants experience different types of goal statements and their emotional impacts, enh

20m–40m3+Intermediate
Problem Solving

TRIZ

TRIZ is a structured method that encourages groups to identify and eliminate counterproductive activities that hinder their success. It is particularly useful for fostering innovation by challenging existing practices an

30m4–7Intermediate
relationship-building

Troika Consulting

Troika Consulting is a peer-to-peer coaching method that helps participants gain insights into their challenges by receiving advice from colleagues. It fosters mutual support and trust within a group, making it ideal for

15m3+Beginner
Team Building

Trust Battery

This activity helps team members assess their individual trust levels towards each other. It emphasizes actions that can enhance trust in workplace relationships, fostering better collaboration and communication.

FlexibleAnyBeginner
Problem Solving

Trust Exploration

This activity helps participants express and explore their views on trust in the workplace. Through the use of Trust Cards, individuals can reflect on factors that contribute to or undermine trust among colleagues and in

40m5–20Advanced
Energiser

Two Truths and a Lie

A classic ice breaker where each participant shares three statements about themselves — two true, one false. The group votes on which statement is the lie. It's low-pressure, generates laughter, and reveals surprising pe

10m–20m3–30Beginner
facilitation-techniques

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 typol

1h–2h5–10Intermediate
Problem Solving

User Interview

A structured one-on-one conversation with a user, customer, or stakeholder designed to surface needs, behaviours, mental models, and pain points that cannot be discovered through analytics or surveys alone. The core tech

30m–1h2–3Intermediate
Problem Solving

User Journey Map

A visual map of a user's experience with a product, service, or process over time. It traces each step of the user's interaction — their actions, thoughts, emotions, pain points, and opportunities — from initial awarenes

1h–3h2–12Intermediate
relationship-building

Users Experience Fishbowl

The Users Experience Fishbowl is a dynamic method for sharing practical experiences between those with direct insights and a broader audience. It uses a dual-circle setup to facilitate open dialogues, allowing participan

30m–1h10+Intermediate
Strategy

Value Map

The Value Map method helps teams visually prioritize features or elements by plotting them on a matrix based on group preferences. It is particularly useful for understanding what aspects of a product, service, or plan a

15m–2h5–30Intermediate
Strategy

Value Proposition Canvas

Also by Alexander Osterwalder, this canvas zooms into two blocks of the BMC: the Customer Profile (jobs-to-be-done, pains, gains) and the Value Map (products/services, pain relievers, gain creators). The goal is to achie

1h–2h2–12Intermediate
Ideation

Video Card Family Game

The Video Card Family Game is a collaborative design technique that leverages video clips from ethnographic fieldwork to co-create products or services. It involves analyzing key frames of participants’ activities to gen

7h–8h6–12Advanced
Facilitation

Virtual Bingo

Virtual Bingo engages participants by highlighting common virtual meeting distractions. As participants mark their cards for occurrences during the session, it fosters awareness and encourages focus on the content.

FlexibleAnyBeginner
Energiser

Virtual scavenger hunt

Host a lively virtual scavenger hunt to boost team spirit and creativity. Participants work together to find items or complete tasks based on a creative list, fostering collaboration and fun in a remote setting.

30m–1h2–50Intermediate
planning

Visual Agenda

The Visual Agenda method enhances engagement and focus in meetings by transforming the agenda into a creative visual display. This approach is particularly effective for meetings involving cross-disciplinary teams or whe

30m–1h3+Intermediate
relationship-building

Visual Glossary

The Visual Glossary method helps teams establish a shared vocabulary by visually defining key terms. This approach is ideal for groups dealing with complex jargon or technical language that can lead to misunderstandings.

30m–1h2–10Intermediate
Problem Solving

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.

30m–1hAnyIntermediate
Facilitation

W³ — What, So What, Now What

A simple three-stage reflection framework (a Liberating Structure) that guides groups from raw observation to meaningful action. What (what did we observe or experience?) → So What (what does it mean? why does it matter?

15m–45m2–50Beginner
Ideation

Walking Brainstorm

This brainstorming method encourages participants to generate ideas while physically moving. It creates a dynamic atmosphere where individuals can silently contribute to and build on each other's thoughts, making it suit

2m–15m2+Beginner
Ideation

Walking questions

This method encourages participants to collaboratively explore open questions and generate diverse ideas. It shifts the responsibility for generating answers from the facilitator to the group, leveraging collective insig

15m–20m5–10Beginner
Facilitation

Warm Demander

A facilitation stance rather than a structured activity — the 'Warm Demander' holds two things simultaneously: genuine care for participants and high expectations of their contribution and thinking. Originally from educa

5m–30m1–30Intermediate
icebreakers

Weatherball

A quick emotional temperature check where participants pass a patterned ball and choose a patch that represents their current emotional 'weather'. Low-pressure and tactile, it works especially well with groups that don't

5m–15m4–20Intermediate
Problem Solving

Wellbeing North Star

The Wellbeing North Star method helps teams identify areas of improvement by evaluating what they like and dislike about different aspects of a project or situation. This approach encourages collaborative problem-solving

1h5–8Intermediate
Energiser

What are you doing?

Participants take turns miming actions while others guess what they are doing. This activity encourages creativity and pushes participants slightly out of their comfort zones in a fun way.

5m–30m10–40Beginner
relationship-building

What I Need From You (WINFY)

What I Need From You (WINFY) is designed to improve communication and collaboration across different functions or disciplines by clarifying and responding to specific needs. Participants articulate their core needs and r

55m–1h9+Intermediate
Ideation

What is a Knowledge Game?

A knowledge game is a structured form of play designed to foster learning and creativity through defined rules, goals, and boundaries. It transforms a simple activity into a collaborative and strategic exploration of ide

30m–1h2+Intermediate
Retro

What, So What, Now What? W³

This method helps groups reflect on a shared experience by progressing through three stages: What happened, why it's important, and what actions should follow. It's designed to encourage understanding and coordinated act

45m5+Intermediate
Facilitation

Wheel of Life

A self-assessment tool used in coaching and personal development. A circle is divided into 8 segments representing key life areas (e.g. Career, Finances, Health, Relationships, Personal Growth, Fun/Recreation, Physical E

20m–40m1–20Beginner
Team Building

Who are you? The pirate ship exercise

This engaging exercise encourages participants to reflect on their roles and feelings regarding a specific topic in the group context. It serves as an effective opener for meetings by prompting personal insights and shar

10mAnyBeginner
Facilitation

Who/What/When Matrix

This matrix helps clarify who is accountable for specific tasks and when they will be completed. Participants can outline their commitments, ensuring everyone understands their responsibilities and deadlines.

15m–30m1–10Beginner
Strategy

Whole Product Game

The Whole Product Game helps teams identify unique selling points by examining a product through various customer expectation lenses. It is particularly useful for discovering ways to differentiate a product in competiti

1h5–8Intermediate
Problem Solving

Wicked Questions

A Liberating Structure that surfaces the adaptive challenges and paradoxes that undermine conventional strategic thinking. A Wicked Question holds two apparently contradictory truths simultaneously: 'How is it that we mu

25m–45m3–50Intermediate
relationship-building

Wise Crowds

Wise Crowds is a facilitation method that leverages collective intelligence and peer support to address individual challenges. Participants take turns acting as a 'client', presenting a personal challenge to a group of '

15m–1h4–7Intermediate
Ideation

Wizard Of Oz

The Wizard of Oz method is a role-play exercise where participants simulate a machine-human interaction to test or develop ideas. One person plays the user, while another acts as the 'wizard' controlling the machine behi

30m2+Intermediate
Team Building

Working Agreements

A collaborative process for establishing explicit agreements about how a team will work together. Unlike imposed rules, working agreements are co-created by the team, which increases buy-in and accountability. They cover

20m–45m2–20Beginner
relationship-building

World Café

World Café is a structured conversational process for engaging large groups in meaningful dialogue. It mimics the informal atmosphere of café conversations to foster open discussion and idea sharing. This method is ideal

2h24+Intermediate
Ideation

Worst Possible Idea

A liberating ideation technique that inverts the usual brainstorming prompt. Instead of 'How might we solve this?', participants are asked 'How might we make this as bad as possible?' or 'What is the worst idea you can t

20m–40m2–20Beginner
Energiser

Your Amazing Future (Because of that...)

This activity invites participants to envision their future by sharing positive outcomes from a recent event. Through prompts, they creatively explore how their experiences shape their paths forward, making it perfect fo

FlexibleAnyIntermediate
Facilitation

Your Leadership Coat of Arms

In this activity, participants draw a coat of arms that represents their leadership philosophy and values. Through sharing and discussion, participants reflect on what they believe is essential in their leadership practi

25m1+Beginner
icebreakers

Your Personal Motto

Participants craft a brief personal motto or epitaph that captures their core value. The exercise surfaces inner motivations, helps team members understand what drives each person, and builds community through authentic

30m–45m4–30Intermediate

Method descriptions are original content by Workshop Weaver, based on established facilitation practices. Some methods are attributed to their original authors — see individual method pages for details. Liberating Structures methods are shared under CC BY-SA 4.0.