diverge · Problem Solving, Innovation · 20–30 min · 2-40 people · low energy
15% Solutions
15% Solutions unlocks individual initiative by focusing on actions participants can take immediately with their existing resources and authority. It empowers individuals to identify and implement small changes that can collectively lead to significant improvements.
When to use 15% Solutions
Use this method when you need to overcome feelings of powerlessness or stagnation within a group and encourage proactive problem-solving. It's particularly useful when facing complex challenges where top-down solutions are insufficient.
What it solves
Feelings of powerlessness and inaction, reliance on external resources or authority, overlooking individual contributions.
How to run 15% Solutions, step by step
- Individual Reflection (5 min) - Ask participants to silently consider: "What is your 15 percent? Where do you have discretion and freedom to act? What can you do without more resources or authority?" and write down their ideas.
- Small Group Sharing (3 min per person) - Divide participants into groups of 2-4. Each person shares their 15% solutions with the group.
- Consultation (5-7 min per person) - Group members provide feedback, ask clarifying questions, and offer advice to the person sharing.
- Debrief (5 min) - Facilitate a brief whole-group discussion to share key insights and potential next steps.
Materials needed
- Paper or digital document for individual note-taking
- Timer
- Whiteboard or shared online document for capturing solutions (optional)
Facilitator tips
- Emphasize that solutions should be within the individual's control.
- Encourage participants to think creatively and challenge assumptions.
- Help the group identify common themes and potential synergies between individual solutions.
Common pitfalls
- Participants focusing on problems outside their control. - Redirect the conversation back to actionable steps within their sphere of influence.
- Individuals being hesitant to share their ideas. - Create a safe and supportive environment where all contributions are valued.
Variations
- Use 1-2-4-All as a warm-up to generate more ideas before the small group sharing.
- Ask participants to commit to implementing one of their 15% solutions within a specific timeframe.
Running it online or hybrid
Use breakout rooms for small group discussions and a shared online document for capturing individual solutions.
What it produces
A list of actionable 15% solutions generated by each participant, potentially consolidated into a shared action plan.
Origin
Liberating Structure developed by Henri Lipmanowicz and Keith McCandless. Inspired by professor Gareth Morgan. — source
Build a session around 15% Solutions
METODIC places 15% Solutions inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.