close · Decision Making, Team Building, Strategy · 15–30 min · 2-40 people · low energy
Delegation Board
The Delegation Board is a visual tool used to communicate the level of delegation for various key decision areas within a team or between a manager and team members. It promotes transparency and shared understanding of decision-making authority.
When to use Delegation Board
Use this method to visualize and communicate delegation levels, establish clear boundaries, and empower teams through self-organization.
What it solves
Lack of clarity on decision-making authority, inconsistent delegation practices, difficulty empowering teams.
How to run Delegation Board, step by step
- Identify key decision areas relevant to the team or individuals involved. (5 minutes)
- Create a board (physical or virtual) with the decision areas listed vertically and the seven levels of delegation listed horizontally. (5 minutes)
- For each decision area, determine the appropriate delegation level and mark it on the board. (10-15 minutes)
- Regularly review and update the board as needed. (Ongoing)
Materials needed
- Physical board or virtual whiteboard
- Markers or sticky notes (for physical board)
- List of key decision areas
- Access to the seven levels of delegation
Facilitator tips
- Hang the Delegation Board in a visible location for easy reference.
- Encourage team members to refer to the board when making decisions.
- Regularly review and update the board to reflect changes in delegation levels.
Common pitfalls
- The board may become outdated if not regularly reviewed and updated. Schedule regular review sessions.
- Team members may not fully understand the delegation levels. Provide clear explanations and examples.
- The board may be ignored if not actively used and promoted. Encourage team members to use it as a reference tool.
Variations
- Use a spreadsheet instead of a physical or virtual board.
- Color-code the delegation levels for easier visualization.
- Involve the entire team in the creation and maintenance of the board.
Running it online or hybrid
Use a shared online document or whiteboard to create a virtual Delegation Board. Ensure all team members have access and can easily view and update it.
What it produces
A visual representation of the delegation levels for key decision areas.
Origin
Adapted from Management 3.0 — source
Build a session around Delegation Board
METODIC places Delegation Board inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.