converge · Problem Solving, Feedback · 15–60 min · 4-100 people · medium energy
Wise Crowds
Wise Crowds is a structured consultation process that allows individuals to receive targeted advice and support from a small group or a larger audience. It fosters collective intelligence and helps participants gain clarity on their challenges through peer-to-peer consulting.
When to use Wise Crowds
Use this method when individuals need focused feedback and diverse perspectives on a specific challenge or opportunity. It's particularly useful for overcoming roadblocks, refining ideas, or gaining confidence in a chosen path.
What it solves
Individual stuck in their own perspective; lack of diverse viewpoints; fear of asking for help.
How to run Wise Crowds, step by step
- The 'client' briefly presents their challenge and request for help. (2 minutes)
- The 'consultants' ask clarifying questions to fully understand the challenge. (3 minutes)
- The 'client' turns their back to the consultants to listen without interruption. (8 minutes)
- The consultants discuss the challenge and offer advice and recommendations. (8 minutes)
- The 'client' turns around and provides feedback on what was useful and what they will take away. (2 minutes)
Materials needed
- Chairs arranged in small groups
- Paper for note-taking
- Timer
- Index cards (for large groups)
Facilitator tips
- Encourage consultants to focus on asking 'What is happening here?' and 'How are you experiencing what is happening?'
- Remind participants to avoid jumping to solutions before fully understanding the problem.
Common pitfalls
- Consultants offering generic advice or hijacking the conversation. - Remind consultants to focus on the client's specific challenge and experience.
- Client becoming defensive or dismissive of feedback. - Emphasize the importance of open-mindedness and active listening.
Variations
- Q-Storming: Restrict the consulting to only asking honest, open questions, focusing on helping the client gain personal clarity.
- Large Group Wise Crowds: One person asks a whole room for help, with a primary consulting team and satellite consulting teams.
Running it online or hybrid
Use breakout rooms for small group consultations and a shared document or whiteboard for capturing recommendations in larger groups.
What it produces
Actionable advice and recommendations for the 'client'; increased clarity and self-understanding.
Origin
Liberating Structure developed by Henri Lipmanowicz and Keith McCandless. Inspired by Quaker Clearness Committees. — source
Build a session around Wise Crowds
METODIC places Wise Crowds inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.