Sailboat
What is it?
A Sailboat is a tool for developing a shared narrative with your project partners. It is helpful when you are starting to work with new people to get everyone’s thoughts out on the open.
Why and when should I use this?
It opens up areas of the project with your clients and key partners that otherwise might not come up naturally in an informal setting. Putting thoughts down on paper and discussing as a group helps you to come to a joint decision and set actions.
How much time should I spend on this?
20-40 minutes. At this stage, the people you are working with will be new to the project and will need more time to write down their thoughts.
Who should I involve in this?
Use this with your clients and strategic stakeholders. You want to invite people who have an understanding of the wider work that's going on around your project to understand motivations, crossover, and if there is potential for collaboration.
How to use it...
- Write down what your project is about: In a group of 5-10, write what you think your project is about and stick to the map. This will reveal any different perspectives or priorities.
- Fill in each heading: Working individually, write down and add your ideas under each heading.
- Facilitated discussion: Open up a group discussion by highlighting key insights under each heading and asking the group what their thoughts are. Find out if there are differences of opinion and try to come to a consensus.
- Agree aims and objectives: Based on your discussion and insights, decide on a few aims and objectives to guide the project. This should give you, and your strategic stakeholders, clarity on what happens next.