Strategy · intermediate · 45 min

Futures Wheel - Sprint Risks

Explore potential consequences of risks identified during sprint planning. By mapping direct and secondary impacts of risks, the team can proactively develop mitigation strategies and contingency plans.

What participants gain

  • Participants will be able to identify potential consequences of sprint risks.
  • Participants will be able to develop mitigation strategies for identified risks.
  • Participants will be able to proactively plan for unexpected challenges.

Materials needed

  • Whiteboard or large paper
  • Markers (different colors)
  • Post-it notes
  • Timer
  • Pre-drawn Futures Wheel template

How to run Futures Wheel - Sprint Risks, step by step

  1. Introduce the Futures Wheel technique and its purpose.
  2. Identify a key risk that could impact the sprint.
  3. Write the risk in the center of the Futures Wheel.
  4. Brainstorm direct consequences of the risk and write them on post-it notes around the center.
  5. For each direct consequence, brainstorm secondary consequences and write them on post-it notes radiating outwards.
  6. Discuss potential mitigation strategies for each consequence.
  7. Document the Futures Wheel and share it with the team.
  8. Regularly review and update the Futures Wheel as new information becomes available.

Facilitator tips

  • Encourage creative thinking and exploration of both positive and negative consequences.
  • Focus on identifying concrete and actionable mitigation strategies.
  • Document the Futures Wheel and share it with the team for ongoing reference.

Common challenges

  • Focusing only on negative consequences - Remind participants to also consider potential positive outcomes or unexpected benefits.
  • Becoming overwhelmed by the complexity of the wheel - Focus on the most likely and impactful consequences.
  • Lack of clear mitigation strategies - Translate potential consequences into actionable steps to prevent or minimize negative impacts.

Running it virtually

Use a virtual whiteboard tool like Miro or Mural to create a shared Futures Wheel. Participants can add virtual sticky notes to represent consequences and mitigation strategies.

Expected results

A visual representation of potential consequences of sprint risks, along with identified mitigation strategies. The team will be better prepared to handle unexpected challenges and keep the sprint on track.

Build a session around Futures Wheel - Sprint Risks

METODIC drops Futures Wheel - Sprint Risks into a complete session plan with timing, materials, worksheets, and a facilitator guide — for any workshop, meeting, or team session.

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