Ideation · intermediate · 60 min

World Cafe

The World Cafe is a structured conversational process for knowledge sharing and collaborative dialogue. It allows participants to explore a topic from multiple perspectives and generate collective insights.

What participants gain

  • Share knowledge and perspectives.
  • Generate collective insights.
  • Foster collaborative dialogue.
  • Develop a shared understanding of the topic.

Materials needed

  • Tables covered with tablecloths or large paper
  • Colored markers
  • Paper for taking notes
  • Questions for each table
  • Timer
  • Pens

How to run World Cafe, step by step

  1. 1. Set up the café environment with tables and materials.
  2. 2. Divide participants into small groups and assign them to tables.
  3. 3. Present the questions to be explored at each table.
  4. 4. Facilitate rounds of conversation, with participants rotating to different tables.
  5. 5. Encourage participants to build on each other's ideas.
  6. 6. Conduct a plenary session to share key insights and findings.
  7. 7. Document key insights and action items.

Facilitator tips

  • Prepare the café environment with tablecloths and markers.
  • Clearly define the questions to be explored at each table.
  • Encourage participants to build on each other's ideas.

Common challenges

  • Discussions become repetitive - Rotate participants frequently.
  • Participants dominate conversation - Encourage equal participation.
  • Difficulty synthesizing insights - Dedicate time for a plenary session to share key findings.

Running it virtually

Use breakout rooms in a video conferencing platform. Assign different questions to each room and have participants rotate. Use a shared document for note-taking.

Expected results

A rich collection of ideas and insights generated through collaborative dialogue. This leads to a shared understanding of the topic and potential solutions.

Build a session around World Cafe

METODIC drops World Cafe into a complete session plan with timing, materials, worksheets, and a facilitator guide — for any workshop, meeting, or team session.

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