diverge · Problem Solving · 45 min · 4-40 people · medium energy

Agreement-Certainty Matrix

The Agreement-Certainty Matrix helps teams categorize challenges based on the level of agreement on the problem and the certainty of potential solutions, enabling them to select appropriate problem-solving approaches. This method prevents the application of ineffective strategies by clarifying the nature of the challenge.

When to use Agreement-Certainty Matrix

Use this method when a team is struggling to make progress on complex issues, facing recurring problems, or when there's a lack of clarity on how to approach different types of challenges.

What it solves

Mismatched problem-solving approaches leading to wasted effort and frustration.

How to run Agreement-Certainty Matrix, step by step

  1. Individually, participants list all the challenges taking up their time. (5 min)
  2. Still individually, participants place each challenge in their personal matrix based on agreement and certainty. (5 min)
  3. In pairs, participants discuss their placements and reasoning. (5 min)
  4. In groups of 4-6, participants share points of agreement, difference, and mismatches in approaches. (10 min)
  5. Post all challenges on a large, shared matrix. (5 min)
  6. In small groups, reflect on patterns and identify significant mismatches. (5 min)
  7. The whole group shares reflections and decides on next steps. (10 min)

Materials needed

  • Chairs for small groups
  • Large tapestry paper with the matrix
  • Blank matrix for each participant
  • Sticky notes
  • Markers

Facilitator tips

  • Clarify the scope of challenges to be included (e.g., specific projects, organizational issues).
  • Encourage exploration of items that fall into multiple sectors by asking about different dynamics at play.

Common pitfalls

  • Participants making judgments about where others place their activities.
  • Teams failing to identify concrete action steps to address the mismatches.

Variations

  • Use the matrix to analyze a single, specific issue the team is facing.
  • Create a table to capture mismatches and planned action steps.

Running it online or hybrid

Use a shared digital whiteboard like Miro or Mural to create the matrix and allow participants to add their challenges as virtual sticky notes.

What it produces

A matrix visually representing challenges categorized by agreement and certainty, along with identified mismatches and potential action steps.

Origin

Liberating Structure developed by Henri Lipmanowicz and Keith McCandless. Adapted from the work of professors Ralph Stacey and Brenda Zimmerman. — source

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