converge · Ideation · 15–30 min · 1-40 people · low energy
Seeds
The Seeds method helps individuals identify and articulate key insights that emerge from periods of reflection, such as journaling or presencing exercises. It bridges the gap between abstract insights and concrete ideas for prototyping and action.
When to use Seeds
Use this method after a period of deep reflection or a presencing exercise to help participants translate their insights into actionable ideas. It's particularly useful when transitioning from understanding a problem to generating potential solutions.
What it solves
Difficulty translating insights into actionable steps; feeling overwhelmed by the complexity of a problem.
How to run Seeds, step by step
- (5 min) Individually reflect on recent experiences, journaling prompts, or presencing exercises. Focus on what resonated most strongly.
- (10 min) Write down individual 'Seeds' - short phrases or keywords that capture key insights or potential actions. Aim for 3-5 seeds per person.
- (10 min) Share seeds in small groups or with the larger group. Discuss the connections between different seeds and identify potential areas for prototyping.
Materials needed
- Paper or digital document for journaling
- Pens or keyboards
- Timer
- Whiteboard or virtual collaboration tool (e.g., Miro, Mural)
Facilitator tips
- Encourage participants to trust their intuition and not overthink their 'Seeds'.
- Emphasize that clarity may emerge over time, and it's okay to feel uncertain initially.
Common pitfalls
- Participants struggle to articulate their insights: Provide guiding questions or prompts to help them get started.
- Participants get stuck in analysis paralysis: Remind them to focus on capturing initial ideas rather than perfecting them.
Variations
- Use different reflection prompts to guide the process.
- Combine 'Seeds' with other ideation techniques, such as brainstorming or mind mapping.
Running it online or hybrid
Participants can use a shared online document or a virtual whiteboard to record and share their 'Seeds'.
What it produces
A collection of individual 'Seeds' - short, personal notations capturing key insights and potential actions.
Origin
Adapted from u-school for Transformation by Presencing Institute — source
Build a session around Seeds
METODIC places Seeds inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.