diverge · Problem Solving · 30–45 min · 3-15 people · medium energy

Barriers to Change Identification

This activity helps teams identify and understand the obstacles hindering progress towards a desired change. By surfacing these barriers, the group can then develop targeted strategies to overcome them.

When to use Barriers to Change Identification

Use this when a change initiative is stalled or facing resistance, or when you need to proactively identify potential roadblocks before they derail the process.

What it solves

Hidden resistance to change, unidentified obstacles, lack of buy-in from stakeholders.

How to run Barriers to Change Identification, step by step

  1. Individually brainstorm potential barriers to the change. (10 min)
  2. Share and discuss the identified barriers in small groups. (15 min)
  3. As a whole group, categorize the barriers into common themes and prioritize them based on their impact. (20 min)

Materials needed

  • Sticky notes
  • Markers
  • Whiteboard or flip chart
  • Dot stickers (for voting)

Facilitator tips

  • Create a safe space for participants to share their concerns openly.
  • Encourage participants to be specific and provide examples to illustrate their points.

Common pitfalls

  • Participants focusing on symptoms rather than root causes.
  • Dominant voices overshadowing quieter participants.

Variations

  • Use a pre-defined list of potential barriers as a starting point.
  • Conduct a SWOT analysis to identify internal and external barriers.

Running it online or hybrid

Use a virtual whiteboard like Miro or Mural for brainstorming and affinity mapping.

What it produces

A prioritized list of barriers to change, categorized by theme and impact.

Origin

Inspired by NOBL Academy's focus on change barriers — source

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