Thunderbolt Thinking Technique:
ONE PICTURE OR ONE THOUSAND WORDS
What is it? This technique emphasizes the power of drawings and symbols as
communication vehicles.
Why is it important? Since we absorb information more readily and easily through visual
formats, people gain a better sense of a project and communication will occur more quickly
and effectively with a picture than with a phrase or sentence. In addition, drawing helps
to develop skills that might otherwise lie dormant--such as awareness and humor.
How do I do it?
Give your group the following task:
"Within one minute I would like you to write a story about your dream vacation. Be as
detailed and concrete as possible."
Next, say, "Within one minute I would
like you to draw a picture of your dream vacation. Be as detailed and concrete as
possible."
Once everyone has finished, ask a volunteer
to read his or her story and present his or her picture to the group.
Ask the group, "What did you learn from
each presentation about the volunteer and his or her dream? Which presentation was more
complete and detailed? Which was easier to do? Which was least restrictive?"
Address the meeting topic next, and ask each
participant to draw a picture of the task, topic, project or initiative.
What are some ways to use this
TNT? Use this technique when you need to get all aspects
or details of a project or situation on the table quickly. It is also a very good
technique for quickly understanding the different perspectives of each person in the
meeting.
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