Affinity Diagrams

What is an Affinity Diagram? A way to get a group to generate a number of creative new thought patterns.

When do you use it? When a breakthrough is needed. When participation and support for a solution is essential. When there seem to be large or complex issues.

What are the steps? Gather a small group (5 or 6) that has a good understanding of the process or issue. Include those with valuable insights even though they might not be part of the usual work team. Express the issue to be considered in a vague question such as "What are the issue involved in.." and get agreement from the group that this captures the circumstance being discussed Brainstorm ideas on to sticky paper squares and stick these onto a flip chart or whiteboard. Mix the papers randomly so they are visible to the whole group (on a table might be easiest). Ask the group to remain silent whilst they sort the papers into affinity groupings in a speedy manner, using gut reactions rather than logic (avoiding traditional groupings). Moving papers more than once is fine, as are lone papers Look for a paper in each grouping that can be a header or make one (this should identify the essence of the grouping in a carefully worded phrase that can be understood by a visitor to the room) The affinity diagram can then be constructed by moving the groupings so related groupings are close to each other. The diagram can then be shared with other teams and adjusted as necessary.

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