Focus on the graphic representation of content
The facilitation method thrives on the interaction of the group and the visualization of the content developed (cards, pinboards). "Graphic facilitation" is based on the same principles, but rigorously places the graphic representation of content at the center. The method was developed in California in the late 1960s and has only made the leap to Europe in the last 15 - 20 years.
"Graphic facilitation" captures core ideas with words and drawings. While seminars and workshops are in progress, the "graphic facilitator" draws simultaneously by hand on the largest possible pieces of paper, which are attached to the walls. This allows the participants to be in constant contact with what they are working on and stimulates exchange and the creation of new ideas. The participants can see the progress of their work at all times and, thanks to the facilitator, remain focused on the pre-planned course of the workshop.
"Graphic Facilitation" uses visual communication as an effective method in group interactions: "Graphic Facilitation" helps to reduce the complexity of group discussions. It reflects the different perspectives on a topic, structures ideas and thoughts and captures information and feelings. In this way, graphic facilitation mobilizes the group and encourages them to be more creative. At the same time, graphic facilitation ensures that the group does not lose focus. Last but not least, graphics stimulate both sides of the brain and ensure that what has been worked out sticks in the memory for longer.
The advantages of graphic facilitation
- Graphic symbols visualize problems that are difficult or impossible to express verbally.
- The visual language transcends language barriers and cultures and facilitates communication.
- The images stimulate the right hemisphere of the brain and help people to act more creatively
- The "graphs" arise from the group activity and enable a review at any time.
- Ideas can be taken up again at any time at the appropriate place
- Images visualize moods, feelings and the "unsaid" that would never be expressed verbally
- "Frequent talkers" recognize their excess of activity graphically, the "quiet ones" recognize their inactivity accordingly
- The group is guided through the process by templates, remains focused and has an overview of their activity at the end
- Finished "graphs" are digitized and used as a summary, training material, "sales tool" or, for example, as a team mission statement.
