Planning · intermediate · 10 min

The Commitment Protocol (Chat-Based RACI)

This rapid planning method translates the agreed-upon hypotheses into immediate accountability. By using the chat channel to publicly claim 'Lead' or 'Support' roles, it creates an immutable, transparent record of commitment. It bridges the gap between abstract workshop decisions and Monday morning execution.

What participants gain

  • Translate strategic priorities into personal accountability
  • Self-organize into cross-functional micro-teams
  • Establish clear next steps and deadlines
  • Document commitments transparently

Materials needed

  • Single shared screen
  • Meeting software chat channel
  • Final top 3 list from previous exercise
  • Screenshot tool

How to run The Commitment Protocol (Chat-Based RACI), step by step

  1. Display the final top 3 hypotheses clearly on the shared screen document (1 min).
  2. Explain that each hypothesis needs a lead investigator to gather initial data (1 min).
  3. Instruct participants to review the 3 items and decide if their role gives them the right access to investigate one (1 min).
  4. Direct volunteers to type 'LEAD: [Hypothesis Number]' in the chat to claim ownership (1 min).
  5. Ask the remaining participants to type 'SUPPORT: [Hypothesis Number]' to form the micro-teams (1 min).
  6. Document the names next to each hypothesis on the shared screen as they appear in the chat (1 min).
  7. Confirm the teams verbally and state the deadline for their first exploratory report (1 min).
  8. Take a screenshot of the final screen and post it in the chat for the official, immutable record (1 min).

Facilitator tips

  • ⏱ Timing: flexible — if people hesitate to lead, you can spend an extra minute encouraging cross-department pairs.
  • Emphasize that 'Lead' doesn't mean doing all the work, it means coordinating the investigation.
  • If no one steps up for a hypothesis, ask the room if the hypothesis is actually valid.
  • Celebrate the volunteers instantly to build momentum and peer pressure for the remaining slots.
  • Ensure both remote and in-room participants are represented in the leadership roles.

Common challenges

  • Dead silence/no volunteers — call on specific departments (not individuals) who possess the relevant data.
  • One person tries to lead everything — gently enforce a 'one lead role per person' rule.
  • Too many supporters for one item, none for another — ask for load-balancing volunteers to switch teams.
  • In-room participants try to volunteer verbally — force them to type it in the chat for the official record.

Running it virtually

Since everything is recorded in the chat, the virtual environment is actually superior here. The screenshot serves as a perfect artifact for both remote and physical attendees.

Expected results

Three formed micro-teams with explicit leads and supporters, documented permanently in the chat history.

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