diverge · Problem Solving, Strategy · 25 min · 4-40 people · medium energy
Wicked Questions
Wicked Questions helps groups identify and articulate the paradoxical challenges they face, fostering deeper strategic thinking and revealing hidden opportunities. By exploring seemingly opposing forces, teams can move beyond simplistic 'either-or' thinking and develop more nuanced and innovative solutions.
When to use Wicked Questions
Use this method when a team is stuck in unproductive debates, facing complex challenges with no easy answers, or needs to develop a more comprehensive understanding of their situation.
What it solves
Binary thinking, 'Yes, but...' responses, inability to see multiple perspectives, strategic misalignment
How to run Wicked Questions, step by step
- Introduce the concept of Wicked Questions and paradox, providing a few examples. (5 min)
- Present the template: 'How is it that we are… and we are… simultaneously?' Have each participant individually generate pairs of opposites relevant to their work. (5 min)
- In small groups (4-6 people), have each group select its most impactful Wicked Question. (5 min)
- Share all selected Wicked Questions with the whole group. Facilitate a discussion to identify the most powerful questions and refine them further. (10 min)
Materials needed
- Paper or digital document for recording
- Pens
- Whiteboard or virtual collaboration tool
Facilitator tips
- Emphasize that both sides of the paradox should be expressed in an appreciative, non-judgmental way.
- Use diverse examples to illustrate the concept of paradoxical attributes.
- Encourage participants to draw on their own experiences when formulating questions.
Common pitfalls
- Formulating questions that are accusatory or unbalanced.
- Creating questions that can be answered with simple data analysis.
- Not allowing enough time for refinement and discussion.
Variations
- Use Wicked Questions to evaluate and launch Improv Prototyping, Ecocycle Planning, or 25/10 Crowd Sourcing.
- Follow up with 15% Solutions and 1-2-4-All to generate and sift ideas related to the Wicked Questions.
Running it online or hybrid
Use a shared online whiteboard like Miro or Mural for capturing and refining Wicked Questions.
What it produces
A set of refined 'Wicked Questions' that highlight the core tensions and opportunities within the group's challenge.
Origin
Liberating Structure developed by Henri Lipmanowicz and Keith McCandless. Inspired by Brenda Zimmerman and Scott Kelso. — source
Build a session around Wicked Questions
METODIC places Wicked Questions inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.