Strategy · advanced · 30 min
Seven-Generation Lens
Participants explore the seven-generation principle, considering how current product decisions impact descendants seven generations into the future. This method promotes long-term sustainability and ethical considerations.
What participants gain
- Apply seven-generation thinking to product decisions.
- Identify long-term consequences of current actions.
- Integrate sustainability into product strategy.
Materials needed
- Whiteboard or flip chart
- Markers
- Sticky notes
- Timer
- Talking piece (optional)
How to run Seven-Generation Lens, step by step
- Introduce the seven-generation principle and its significance (5 min).
- Divide participants into small groups (4-5 people per group) (5 min).
- Each group discusses how current product decisions might impact future generations (10 min).
- Each group identifies key areas for improvement (5 min).
- Share insights and findings with the larger group (5 min).
- Facilitate a brief discussion on the key takeaways (5 min).
- Encourage participants to document their insights for future reference (5 min).
- Thank participants for their contributions and participation (2 min).
Facilitator tips
- Set a respectful tone when discussing Indigenous knowledge.
- Encourage participants to consider diverse perspectives.
- Use visual aids to illustrate the seven-generation concept.
- Keep the discussion focused on actionable insights.
- Remind participants to balance short-term goals with long-term impact.
Common challenges
- Participants struggle to think long-term. - Provide examples of long-term consequences.
- Discussion becomes abstract. - Ground the discussion with real-world scenarios.
- Participants feel overwhelmed by the complexity. - Break down the task into smaller, manageable steps.
- Participants dominate the discussion. - Use a virtual 'talking stick' to manage turn-taking fairly.
Running it virtually
Use breakout rooms for small group discussions and a shared online document for capturing key insights. Facilitate the talking piece concept using virtual hand-raising features.
Expected results
Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the long-term implications of their product decisions. They will identify key areas where they can integrate seven-generation thinking into their product strategy.
Build a session around Seven-Generation Lens
METODIC drops Seven-Generation Lens into a complete session plan with timing, materials, worksheets, and a facilitator guide — for any workshop, meeting, or team session.