converge · Decision Making, Problem Solving, Strategy · 30–60 min · 3-12 people · medium energy

Force Field Analysis

Force Field Analysis helps teams make informed decisions about change initiatives by visually mapping the driving and restraining forces at play. By understanding these forces, teams can strategically plan to amplify drivers and mitigate resistors.

When to use Force Field Analysis

Use this method when a team is facing resistance to a proposed change, needs to understand the factors influencing a situation, or wants to develop a strategic plan for overcoming obstacles.

What it solves

Resistance to change, lack of clarity on influencing factors, ineffective change management strategies.

How to run Force Field Analysis, step by step

  1. Define the desired change or goal. Write it clearly at the top of the whiteboard. (5 minutes)
  2. Brainstorm driving forces. List all factors supporting the change in a column on the left side of the board. (10 minutes)
  3. Brainstorm restraining forces. List all factors hindering the change in a column on the right side of the board. (10 minutes)
  4. Rate the forces. Assign a numerical value (e.g., 1-5) to each force based on its strength or impact. (10 minutes)
  5. Analyze and strategize. Discuss which driving forces can be strengthened and which restraining forces can be weakened or eliminated. (15 minutes)
  6. Develop action plan. Identify specific actions to address the key forces and assign owners. (10 minutes)

Materials needed

  • Whiteboard or flip chart
  • Markers or pens
  • Sticky notes (optional)
  • Dot stickers (optional, for voting)
  • Miro or Mural board (for remote sessions)

Facilitator tips

  • Encourage diverse perspectives to ensure all relevant forces are identified.
  • Focus on actionable strategies to address the forces, rather than just listing them.

Common pitfalls

  • Superficial analysis: Ensure the team digs deep to identify the root causes of the forces.
  • Ignoring weak forces: Even seemingly insignificant forces can have a cumulative impact.

Variations

  • Add a column for 'influence' to assess the team's ability to control each force.
  • Use different colored markers to represent different categories of forces (e.g., internal vs. external).

Running it online or hybrid

Use a collaborative whiteboard tool like Miro or Mural to create the force field diagram. Ensure remote participants can easily add and rate forces.

What it produces

A visual diagram of driving and restraining forces, along with a prioritized list of actions to address key forces.

Origin

Adapted from Ramalingam, B. (2006). Tools for knowledge and learning. — source

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