converge · Problem Solving, Team Building, Communication · 55–70 min · 6-49 people · medium energy

What I Need From You (WINFY)

WINFY helps cross-functional teams clarify their dependencies and make explicit requests for support, fostering transparency and collaboration. By structuring the exchange of needs and responses, it bridges silos and reduces misunderstandings.

When to use What I Need From You (WINFY)

Use WINFY when teams are struggling with cross-functional collaboration, experiencing communication breakdowns, or need to align on shared goals and dependencies.

What it solves

Siloed thinking, lack of clarity on dependencies, unspoken needs, cross-functional conflict

How to run What I Need From You (WINFY), step by step

  1. Explain the process and reiterate the goal. Emphasize the need for clear and specific requests. 3 min.
  2. Divide participants into functional clusters and instruct them to use 1-2-4-All to identify their top two needs from each of the other functions, framing them as requests. 5-15 min.
  3. Have each cluster select a spokesperson. Spokespersons gather in a circle and, one by one, state their two needs to each of the other spokespersons, who take notes. 15 min.
  4. Spokespersons individually (or with their cluster) write down one of four responses to each request: yes, no, I will try, or whatever. 5-10 min.
  5. Going around the circle, each spokesperson repeats the requests made by others and shares their responses (yes, no, I will try, or whatever). No discussion or elaboration allowed. 10 min.
  6. Debrief using What, So What, Now What?. 15 min.

Materials needed

  • Paper for recording needs and responses
  • Pens
  • Timer
  • Whiteboard or flip chart for debrief

Facilitator tips

  • Strictly enforce the 'no immediate response' and 'only allowed responses' rules.
  • Encourage participants to ask for what they truly need to be successful.
  • Use question-and-response cards to help groups sharpen how they express their requests.

Common pitfalls

  • Requests are too vague, leading to 'whatever' responses. Emphasize specificity from the outset.
  • Participants lapse into discussion or justification during the response phase. Gently but firmly redirect them to the allowed responses.

Variations

  • Consider a second round if too much appears unresolved or unclear.
  • Replace the response option 'I will try' with 'Huh?' to force deeper understanding and direct action.
  • Use with individuals instead of functional clusters.

Running it online or hybrid

Use breakout rooms for functional clusters and a shared document for spokespersons to record needs and responses.

What it produces

A list of clear requests and corresponding responses (yes, no, I will try, whatever) from different functional groups.

Origin

Liberating Structure developed by Henri Lipmanowicz and Keith McCandless. Inspired by consultant Kathie Dannemiller and professor Dan Pesut. — source

Build a session around What I Need From You (WINFY)

METODIC places What I Need From You (WINFY) inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.

Generate a session with What I Need From You (WINFY) · Try METODIC free