This technique from Wolfgang and Eberhard Schnelle can be used as a facilitation method for groups and as a communication model. This technique develops opinions, builds a common understanding and objectives, and helps formulate recommendations and action plans to focus on a problem and its possible solutions.
Loading...
Rules for using Metaplan
There are some basic rules for writing on cards, which should be communicated to participants at the start of a session:
• Write very clearly in black marker, using capitals if necessary.
• Only one item of information on each card.
• Three or four lines of writing per card. A short phrase should be sufficient. Two or three words are rarely enough to describe a fact sufficiently clearly, while five or more lines cannot be easily read from a distance.
Some basic rules for facilitators are:
• Use cards of one colour for each category of information. Place piles of cards within easy reach of all participants.
• Treat all cards in the same way, making no distinctions unless the group itself wishes to. The facilitator should never give his or her views on the content of a card.
• If the group agrees that a text is not clear; ask that the card be rewritten, but only after the new formulation has been agreed upon by the group.
• Never remove or reject a card, unless the group has decided that it is no longer needed.
• Place the cards on the chart so that the information can be clearly seen. Never overlap cards so part of the text cannot be read.
• Never stick down cards permanently until it is absolutely sure that the chart has been completed.
