Solution tree
Solution tree is a relationship mapping exercise that helps participants build useful connections and understand how people, roles, or ideas relate.
How to run it
- Introduce the problem: Present the central problem to the group and ensure everyone clearly understands it.
- Draw the outline of a tree on a large sheet of paper or a whiteboard.
- Ask the group: “What causes this problem?”
- Write the causes on the roots of the tree, establishing clear connections to the trunk.
- Ask: “What consequences does this problem create?”
- Write the effects on the branches of the tree.
Run this exercise live
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What participants need now
Materials:
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Prompts to use +
Introduce the problem: Present the central problem to the group and ensure everyone clearly understands it.
Draw the outline of a tree on a large sheet of paper or a whiteboard.
Ask the group: “What causes this problem?”
Write the causes on the roots of the tree, establishing clear connections to the trunk.
Ask: “What consequences does this problem create?”
Write the effects on the branches of the tree.
Run this with your AI assistant +
Works with Claude, ChatGPT, Gemini, or your own local model: paste this prompt and your AI will co-facilitate this exercise with you.
Adapt this exercise for my exact room. Exercise: Solution tree. Readiness: Publishable Draft. Core moves: Introduce the problem: Present the central problem to the group and ensure everyone clearly understands it.; Draw the outline of a tree on a large sheet of paper or a whiteboard.; Ask the group: “What causes this problem?”; Write the causes on the roots of the tree, establishing clear connections to the trunk.. Return a concise facilitator script with timing, wording, safety notes, and remote/in-person adjustments.
Origin unverified
- Where we observed it: The strongest current observations come from Participatory Methods; aggregators are listed as additional observations, not origin proof. (1 source observed, including Participatory Methods.)
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