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 — enabling the facilitator to see if apparent consensus masks quiet reservations or if opposition is soft or fundamental.
Come eseguirlo
- 1
Present the proposal clearly.
- 2
Display the seven-point scale: 1 = Whole-hearted support; 2 = Endorsement with minor reservations; 3 = Support with reservations I want noted; 4 = Abstain (I'll support whatever the group decides); 5 = Reservations too significant to stay silent; 6 = Strong disagreement; 7 = Block (I cannot support this).
- 3
Each participant privately writes their number on a card or sticky note.
- 4
Reveal simultaneously.
- 5
Invite 5s, 6s, and 7s to share their concerns.
- 6
Adjust the proposal to address concerns and re-poll until the group reaches an acceptable consensus (usually everyone at 4 or below).
Suggerimenti
The block (7) is not a veto — it's a signal that something fundamental has been missed.
Treat it as information, not obstruction.
A group of 2s and 3s is often more actionable than a mixed 1–6 result.
Variazioni
Simplify to a 5-point scale for quicker use. Run anonymously using polling software for sensitive decisions.
Casi d'uso
Domande frequenti
Quando usare Gradients of Agreement?â–¾
Usa Gradients of Agreement quando vuoi: Strategic decisions; Policy adoption; Consent-based governance; Conflict resolution.
Quanto dura Gradients of Agreement?â–¾
Gradients of Agreement dura tipicamente da 10 a 30 minuti.
Per quanti partecipanti è adatto Gradients of Agreement?▾
Gradients of Agreement funziona meglio per gruppi di 3–30 partecipanti.
Di quali materiali ho bisogno per Gradients of Agreement?â–¾
Per condurre Gradients of Agreement avrai bisogno di: printed or drawn scale (1–7), sticky notes or cards.
Quanto è difficile facilitare Gradients of Agreement?▾
Gradients of Agreement è classificato come intermedio — è utile avere un po' di esperienza di facilitazione.
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Workshop Weaver ti aiuta a combinare metodi come Gradients of Agreement in un'agenda completa e temporizzata in pochi minuti.
Prova gratisMethod descriptions on Workshop Weaver are original content written by our team, based on established facilitation practices.