Description Long

Take a look at the material you’ve produced – everything that is now available.

A visual layout or collage will be created:

• All existing materials (e.g. notes, ideas, sketches) are spread out on a large workspace.
• The materials are analysed, and elements that seem to stand out or have particular importance are cut out.
• Related elements are grouped by placing them next to each other or sticking them together.
• Contrasting or contradictory elements are placed far apart.
• Connections (e.g. lines or colours) can be used to show relationships between the elements.

To finish:

• For any empty spaces, consider what ideas or elements might usefully go there.

Preparation

• There should be enough space available for the visual layout (e.g. a large table or a pinboard).
• Choose materials that are easy to work with, such as coloured paper, markers, glue and drawing pins.
• You may also prepare an example in advance to help illustrate the method to the participants.

Execution

1. The aim of the method is explained by the facilitator: “We want to reorganise our existing material in order to make connections and gaps visible.”
2. The group is guided through the steps, and prompts are provided if participants get stuck.

Hints from experience

• Colours or symbols can be used to highlight specific themes or categories.
• Make sure that all participants are actively involved, especially in smaller groups.
• The results can be discussed together at the end, and the key insights documented – for example, by taking photos.

Tools list

• Arts and craft material
• Head push pins
• Paper
• Paper and pencil
• Paper off the reel
• Pinboard
• Sticky notes

References