converge · Problem Solving · 60–90 min · 4-20 people · medium energy
Affinity Mapping
Affinity Mapping is a collaborative method for organizing a large number of ideas or pieces of information into related groups. It helps teams identify underlying patterns and themes, leading to a shared understanding and focused action.
When to use Affinity Mapping
Use Affinity Mapping when you need to make sense of a large volume of qualitative data, such as brainstorming outputs, customer feedback, or research findings, and identify key themes or areas of focus.
What it solves
Overwhelmed by data and struggling to identify key insights or actionable steps.
How to run Affinity Mapping, step by step
- Define the Focus (5 min). Clearly state the question or problem the group will address. Write it on a flip chart or virtual whiteboard.
- Generate Ideas (10 min). Each participant silently generates ideas on sticky notes, one idea per note. Encourage a wide range of thoughts and perspectives.
- Post Ideas (5 min). Have each participant post their sticky notes on a shared surface (physical or virtual) visible to everyone.
- Silent Sorting (20 min). Participants silently move and group the sticky notes based on their relationships. Encourage collaboration and discussion, but keep it focused on grouping.
- Category Labeling (20 min). Once the ideas are grouped, the team collaboratively names each category with a concise and descriptive label. Write the category name above each group.
- Review and Refine (10 min). Review the categories and groupings as a team. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure the categories accurately reflect the data.
Materials needed
- Sticky notes
- Markers
- Large paper or whiteboard
- Timer
- Virtual whiteboard (for hybrid)
Facilitator tips
- Encourage silent sorting to minimize dominant voices influencing the groupings.
- Create a 'parking lot' for ideas that don't fit into existing categories.
Common pitfalls
- Spending too much time debating the perfect category name. Set a time limit and encourage 'good enough' labels.
- Allowing one person to dominate the sorting process. Remind the group of the silent sorting rule.
Variations
- Use different colored sticky notes to represent different types of data or perspectives.
- Conduct a second round of sorting to identify higher-level categories.
Running it online or hybrid
Use a virtual whiteboard like Miro or Mural to allow participants to collaboratively create and move sticky notes. Ensure clear instructions on how to use the platform's features for creating and grouping notes.
What it produces
A visual representation of clustered ideas with labeled categories, revealing key themes and relationships.
Origin
Based on the KJ Method devised by Jiro Kawakita — source
Build a session around Affinity Mapping
METODIC places Affinity Mapping inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.