explore · Team Building, Strategy · 90–120 min · 4-15 people · medium energy

Define Purpose and Culture

This method guides teams in defining their purpose (why they exist) and their culture (how they work together). By clarifying these fundamental elements, teams can become more focused, aligned, and effective.

When to use Define Purpose and Culture

Use this method when a team is newly formed, experiencing conflict, or needs to reconnect with its core values.

What it solves

Lack of clarity about team purpose; conflicting values; ineffective communication and collaboration.

How to run Define Purpose and Culture, step by step

  1. Introduce the importance of purpose and culture in teamwork. (10 min)
  2. Share examples of purpose statements and cultural values from other companies. (15 min)
  3. Have participants individually brainstorm ideas for the team's purpose and culture. (20 min)
  4. Facilitate a discussion to synthesize the individual ideas into a shared purpose statement and a set of cultural values. (60 min)
  5. Document the purpose statement and cultural values in a visual format that can be displayed in the team's workspace. (15 min)

Materials needed

  • Whiteboard or flip chart
  • Markers or pens
  • Examples of purpose statements and cultural values

Facilitator tips

  • Encourage participants to be authentic and honest in their contributions.
  • Focus on creating a purpose statement that is inspiring and meaningful.
  • Ensure that the cultural values are actionable and reflect the team's desired behavior.

Common pitfalls

  • Participants struggling to articulate the team's purpose. Provide guiding questions and examples.
  • Conflicting opinions about the team's cultural values. Facilitate a discussion to reach consensus.

Variations

  • Use a card sorting activity to prioritize cultural values.
  • Have participants create a visual representation of the team's purpose and culture.

Running it online or hybrid

Use a shared document or digital whiteboard to capture the team's purpose and culture statements. Encourage remote participants to contribute their ideas and feedback in real-time.

What it produces

A clearly defined purpose statement and a set of cultural values that guide the team's behavior.

Origin

Adapted from SessionLab — source

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