Affinity Diagram

Summary

An affinity diagram is a tool used to organize information and ideas. In a planning process it can be used to sort ideas generated through brainstorming into categories. It is also a way to see how much commonality or overlap in those ideas exists.

Tool Description

The basic process is:

 

1.  Have people brainstorm putting each idea onto its own sticky note or card.

2.  Post those notes to a board or flipchart.

3.  Have the group or a facilitator lump similar ideas together.  This step can be done through a conversation or in silence.

4.  Discuss how the ideas were organized to make sure it makes sense to the group.

Summary of Costs

Low - sticky notes, markers

Strengths

  • Easy to use
  • Quick way to organize information

Applications

  • Asset mapping
  • Data analysis and collection
  • Dialogue
  • Values identification
  • Visioning
Submitted By: mcbride05
Last Updated: January 17, 2012, 5:35 am

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