QUICK GUIDE 

Identify a topic for consideration. 

Gather a data set (research findings, ideas, etc.)

Record each item on a separate card or sticky note. 

Form a team of collaborators and pick a facilitator

Have one person describe, then place, an item.

Invite others to place similar items in proximity. 

Repeat the pattern until all items are included. 

Discuss and rearrange items as groupings emerge.

Label the clusters that finally take shape.

Helpful Hints

Don't label the clusters too early. They may shift. 

Look for opportunities to create subgroupings. 

Consider using color to code different types of data. 

Benefits

Helps you identify issues and insights

Reveals thematic patterns

Facilitates productive discussions

Builds a shared understanding

QUICK GUIDE 

Identify a topic for consideration. 

Assemble a diverse group of stakeholders. 

Give each participant a pen and 3 sticky note pads. 

Explain the topic and the color key. 

Rose = Pink (indicates things that are positive).  

Thorn = Blue (indicates things that are negative). 

Bud = Green (indicates things that have potential). 

Instruct each person to generate many data points. 

Include one issue, insight, or idea per sticky note.

Helpful Hints

Tell participants to write multiple items per color. 

Resist the temptation to describe solutions here. 

Limit the time frame and the amount of discussion. 

Benefits

Helps you codify research data 

Invites input from all team members 

Facilitates productive discussion 

Helps you identify issues and insights