Sparring

When to use Sparring

Use Sparring when a team member needs targeted feedback on a specific deliverable, idea, or draft. It's particularly useful when seeking diverse perspectives and promoting open communication within the team.

What it solves

Fear of giving or receiving critical feedback, lack of constructive criticism, limited perspectives on a project.

How to run Sparring, step by step

1. Preparation (15 min) - The person seeking feedback shares their work and relevant context (goals, audience, requirements) with the team beforehand. Create a shared document for feedback.
2. Set the Stage (5 min) - The person seeking feedback briefly explains their goals, the type of feedback they're looking for, and shares examples of constructive feedback.
3. Gather Feedback (10 min) - Team members silently review the work and add their feedback to the shared document, focusing on strengths, areas for improvement, and questions.
4. Discuss (10 min) - The group discusses the feedback, clarifying any points and exploring different perspectives. The person receiving feedback explains their reasoning and considers the suggestions.
5. Wrap Up (5 min) - Thank participants, outline next steps, and set expectations for when the revised work will be shared.

Materials needed

• Meeting space or video conferencing with screen sharing
• Digital collaboration tool (Confluence, Trello, Miro)
• Timer
• Optional: Whiteboard, markers, sticky notes

Facilitator tips

• Encourage specific and actionable feedback.
• Remind participants to focus on the work, not the person.
• Create a psychologically safe environment by emphasizing the value of feedback for growth.

Common pitfalls

• Feedback is too general or vague. - Encourage participants to provide specific examples and suggestions.
• Defensiveness from the person receiving feedback. - Remind them that the goal is to improve the work, not to criticize their abilities.

Variations

• Have the presenter leave the room during the feedback-gathering portion to encourage more candid feedback.
• Schedule regular Sparring sessions to build a culture of continuous feedback.

Running it online or hybrid

Use digital collaboration tools like Confluence or Trello for sharing work and providing feedback. Ensure everyone has access and is comfortable using the chosen platform.

What it produces

Documented feedback with specific suggestions for improvement, identified strengths, and areas of clarification.

Origin

Adapted from Atlassian Team Playbook — source

Build a session around Sparring

METODIC places Sparring inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.

Generate a session with Sparring · Try METODIC free