Now you're ready to lead the group in listing and prioritizing goals -- deciding what needs to be done. That time-tested standard bearer, the nominal group technique is the guiding force. It has broad application and can be used to help a group identify goals, needs/problems, alternative solutions, strategies, and individual beliefs or values.
Keep in mind that the following rendition should be tailored to your style. You will likely want to put your own spin on things.
Your Introduction
The term "nominal group" leaves lay audiences cold. "Democratic brainstorming"
better conveys the message. Explain that it's democratic because everybody has an equal
voice and vote. It relies on brainstorming because we want as many creative and innovative
ideas as possible -- there are no "silly" ideas. Even if an idea appears to be silly in and of
itself, it may have value as part of another idea.
Go on to say that almost every group will have a dominator, someone who wants to dictate and control the outcome. Dominators are not necessarily bad -- they often are bright, committed, and creative. But while one dominator might have an I.Q. of 180, another might have an I.Q. of 8. So the rules of the game in democratic brainstorming are designed to neutralize dominators.
Emphasize that your job is to serve as a discussion leader and lead them to a conclusion by tapping into their collective wisdom. Disavow any biases at the onset. Being a facilitator does not require any expertise in their area. In fact, you can be more objective if you are not an expert. Explain the importance of following the groundrules to tap the power of democratic brainstorming.
On to the next section -- The Mechanics of Brainstorming
Back to Facilitating For Results Content
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