Participatory Methods

Flowchart

Flowchart is a participatory activity used to identify and analyze cause-effect relationships within a central topic. This technique focuses on identifying “critical knots” that require priority attention and assigning responsibilities to address the identified issues. It is especially useful in feedback workshops where the goal is to prioritize key issues and design strategies to address them.

Preparation

  1. Define the purpose:
    • Identify cause-effect relationships within a central topic.
    • Visualize the “critical knots” that require priority attention.
    • Assign responsibilities and design solution strategies.
  2. Prepare the materials:
    • Index cards or sticky notes (2 to 4 per participant).
    • Markers or pens.
    • Whiteboard, flipchart, or large paper to visualize the flowchart.
    • Adhesive tape or glue to attach the cards to the board or paper.
    • Adhesive arrows or markers to draw the cause-effect connections.
    • Optional: charts or tables to record key factors and responsible parties.
  3. Set up the space:
    • Arrange the space so that all participants can see and access the flipchart or whiteboard.
    • Provide a spacious area where participants can comfortably work in small groups.
  4. To run the activity virtually:
    • Use collaborative tools.
    • Provide a space for participants to anonymously submit key factors.
    • Lead the real-time creation of the flowchart by sharing your screen and using virtual arrows and sticky notes.

Step-by-step instructions

  1. Introduce the purpose
    • Explain that the goal is to identify and visualize cause-effect relationships within the central topic, establishing key factors and who is responsible for addressing them.
    • Emphasize the importance of teamwork and reaching consensus for a deeper and more strategic analysis.
  2. Writing key factors (10–15 minutes)
    • Give each participant 2 to 4 index cards or sticky notes and ask them to write down the factors they consider relevant to the central topic.
    • Make sure they include who is responsible for improving each situation in their sentences.
    • Offer support to those who need it, without influencing their answers.
  3. Grouping and summarizing factors (10 minutes)
    • Collect the cards anonymously and read them aloud.
    • Group similar cards based on group consensus and summarize each group in two or three keywords.
    • Place these keywords in a visible place, such as a whiteboard or flipchart.
  4. Building the flowchart (15–20 minutes)
    • Ask participants to look for cause-effect relationships among the identified phrases or keywords.
    • Draw arrows connecting the various factors based on the group’s suggestions and consensus.
    • Ensure everyone participates and shares their ideas to establish connections.
  5. Identifying “critical knots”
    • Count the number of incoming arrows (effects) and outgoing arrows (causes) for each topic to identify the most influential or impactful factors.
    • Highlight these “critical knots” and discuss their relevance with the group.
  6. Assigning responsibilities
    • Discuss which topics or knots can be addressed directly by the group and which require the involvement of external actors.
    • Record this information in a table with columns for responsible parties and possible actions.
Recommendations
  • Ensure equitable participation: Encourage all participants to contribute ideas and proposals.
  • Clearly define the central topic: Make sure the group fully understands the topic before starting.
  • Provide visual examples: Show simple examples of flowcharts to help participants understand the goal.
  • Use differentiated colors: Use markers or arrows in different colors to represent causes, effects, and “critical knots.”
  • Limit the number of factors: Avoid overloading the flowchart by focusing only on the most relevant factors.
  • Maintain facilitator neutrality: The moderator should guide the discussion without influencing the group’s opinions.
  • Promote consensus: Make sure cause-effect connections are agreed upon by the majority before adding them to the flowchart.
  • End with clear commitments: Establish specific agreements on how to address the identified “critical knots.”
Inspiration

Ideas to enrich the flowchart

  1. Key questions for participants:
    • Which factors are the most influential and why?
    • What cause-effect relationships do we observe?
    • Who are the main actors responsible for addressing these factors?
  2. Additional strategies:
    • Use visual metaphors (e.g., a problem tree with roots and fruits).
    • Incorporate a category for possible solutions.
  3. Complementary techniques:
    • Create a parallel impact diagram to prioritize solutions.
    • Identify structural and situational factors separately.
Materials
  • Index cards or sticky notes.
  • Markers or pens.
  • Whiteboard, flipchart, or large paper.
  • Adhesive tape or glue.
  • Optional: tables to assign responsibilities.
Online platforms
Purpose
The purpose of the Flowchart activity is to collectively analyze a central topic by identifying cause-effect relationships. This technique helps prioritize critical factors, assign responsibilities, and design effective strategies to address the most relevant issues.
Type of activity
Participatory Planning
Level of participation
Collaboration, Knowledge generation
Target audience
Educators, Facilitators, Community leaders, Business teams
Fields of application
Education and training, Organizational and business management, Innovation and design
Estimated duration
90–120 minutes
Ideal number of participants
Between 6 and 25 people
Topics related to this activity
Collaborative VisualizationsCollective ConstructionCreative Problem SolvingExperiential LearningKnowledge GenerationPriority IdentificationStrategic PlanningStrategic PlanningStrategic ReflectionSystems VisualizationVisual CommunicationVisual CreationVisual DocumentationVisual ThinkingVisual Tool
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