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Ideal Conditions for ToP Method Tools

Writer's picture: Sherry P. JohnsonSherry P. Johnson
A decorative image of a stone arch doorway of some castle ruins. This image represents making a choice of ToP Methods.
A stone doorway representing choice. This picture is from Hammershus on the Danish island of Bornholm.

ToP Method Tools

Once we’ve taught the basics of using ToP methods, our participants often ask for guidance to figure out when to use which method. It’s totally understandable! The two-day training is jam-packed, and the real world is full of ambiguity.


I thought it might be helpful to reveal my “ideal groups” for each of our foundational methods, PLUS share another couple groups who really need something else entirely. This way, you can see when some of our advanced ToP methods might be a good fit. (Don’t worry; I’ll share places you can learn those, too!)


Of course, no group will ever fit perfectly into these profiles, but a good design conference can go a long way to helping insure successful fit. …Here we go!


The Focused Conversation Group of my Dreams

This group of 8-12 folks is ready to share thoughts on a clearly defined topic. They represent a broad array of interests around the topic. Everyone who has data to share is in the space, or there’s a plan to include them. The group’s cultural context values different ways of learning and expressing information, including rational and intuitive thought. Someone from the group has assisted you in defining rational and experiential aims beforehand, and they have set aside 20-40 minutes for focused engagement around those aims. They’ve also reserved a space that feels warm and has decorative elements that complement the tone of the topic. Finally, any outside authority has already defined how the group’s resolve will be incorporated into the larger context.


The Consensus Workshop Group of my Dreams

This group of 15-35 folks is ready for a focused approach to a complex issue in need of new ideas. They represent a broad array of interests around the topic. Everyone who will be affected by the workshop results is represented in the space, or there’s a plan to include them. The group’s cultural context values openness and creativity. Someone from the group has assisted you in defining rational and experiential aims beforehand, and they have set aside 90 minutes for focused engagement around those aims. They’ve also reserved a space that feels warm and has decorative elements that complement the tone of the topic. Finally, any outside authority has already defined how the group’s resolve will be incorporated into the larger context.


The Action Planning Group of my Dreams

This group of 15-35 folks is ready for a focused approach to planning an event or short-term project they’ve already agreed upon. Ideally, they’re focusing on something that hasn’t been done before, or is in need of an overhaul. Participants represent a broad array of abilities related to the plan. All the “do-ers” are in the room; in fact, there aren’t any “bystanders” or “advisors” who plan to leave after the planning session. The group’s cultural context values the wisdom of the group. They have set aside 3 hours or more for large- and small-group planning. They’ve reserved a space that encourages focus, with good spaces for breaking into small groups. Finally, any outside authority has already weighed in on the plan’s limitations, in terms of legal or financial implications.


The Accelerated Action Planning Group of my Dreams

Everything above, but you’ve only got 6 months and 4-10 “do-ers.” Check out our upcoming course if you want to learn about this tool!


The Strategic Planning Group of my Dreams

This core group of 15-35 folks is ready for investing four, 3-hour sessions in long-term planning for their organization. They represent a broad cross-section of the organization–especially new and veteran members–and there’s a plan in place for communicating progress to those outside the core group. The group’s cultural context values truth-telling and strategic thinking. Their steering committee has assisted you in defining rational and experiential aims for each session beforehand, and they have arranged for sufficient environmental scanning processes so the core group will have all the information it needs to make a good plan. They’ve also reserved a retreat space that feels warm and has decorative elements that inspire positive change. Finally, all authority figures are present, and plan to enthusiastically attend every session.


If you're interested in learning more about any of these tools, check out our upcoming trainings on the Events page.

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