Sometimes, it’s easier for people to write their thoughts down in a group environment rather than speak them out loud. The post-it avalanche technique is perfect for this. Also, it allows people to write their thoughts down immediately instead of wait for their turn to speak. It also leaves a great display to look at afterwards when there’s a whole wall or whiteboard full of brightly colored post-it notes!
Method
Ask everyone to write down their thoughts on a topic (one per post-it) and stick them onto a whiteboard or flipchart page.
Step 1:
Start with a prompt, problem or question such as:
- What do you think of the new proposal for [xyz]?
- What does [abc xyz] mean to you?
- What would a perfect [abc xyz] look like?
- What’s your opinion of [xyz]?
Step 2:
Make sure that everyone has access to post-it notes and pens.
Step 3:
Allow participants to write their thoughts on post-it notes and stick them onto a large board or flipchart page. Keep the board visible throughout the session and allow participants to keep getting up and add their thoughts.
Outcome:
Gather a large range of views and opinions quickly and visually. This method works because participants have ownership of their views, using their own exact words and recorded accurately (not paraphrased by a note-taker). It also helps to keep people moving throughout a session instead of sitting still.
You can take a photograph of the flipchart page or whiteboard at the end and send it to all the participants.
Post-it Avalanche Examples:
