Ideation Techniques
Stop-Start-Continue
Stop-Start-Continue is a feedback and brainstorming technique used to evaluate existing processes, behaviors, or strategies. It involves categorizing actions into three areas: what should be stopped, what should be started, and what should be continued. This method helps teams focus on improving their practices and promoting effective habits.
EFFORT
Low
This method requires minimal preparation and can be executed quickly.
DIFFICULTY
Easy
It is straightforward to implement, though effective moderation is key to ensure balanced and productive discussions.
IMPLEMENTATION
Gather the Team: Bring together all relevant team members for a collaborative session.
Define Categories: Explain the three categories: Stop: Identify actions or processes that are not effective and should be discontinued. Start: Discuss new ideas or actions that should be initiated to improve outcomes. Continue: Recognize effective practices that are currently in place and should be maintained.
Brainstorm and List: Encourage open discussion for each category, allowing team members to contribute their perspectives and suggestions.
Document Feedback: Record all contributions to ensure that every idea is captured.
Analyze and Plan: Review the feedback to identify patterns or common themes and plan actionable steps for each category.
BENEFITS
Provides a clear framework for constructive feedback and continuous improvement.
Encourages participation from all team members, promoting a culture of openness and shared responsibility.
Helps teams focus on what works well and identify areas for growth and innovation.
CHALLENGES
May lead to discomfort or defensiveness if not facilitated with sensitivity and a focus on constructive outcomes.
Requires a culture of trust and openness for effective implementation.
Balancing the discussion across all three categories can be challenging, as some teams may focus too much on negatives or positives.
RECOMMENDED TEAM MEMBERS
Project Manager, Operations, Product Manager, UI/UX Designer
DELIVERABLES
A compiled list of actions for each of the three categories: stop, start, and continue.
A plan detailing how new ideas will be implemented and how ineffective practices will be phased out.
A summary of practices to be maintained, with possible enhancements identified during the session.
Stop-Start-Continue is an excellent tool for team reviews and is particularly useful in agile environments where continuous improvement is a priority. It allows teams to reflect on their practices systematically and make adjustments to enhance their effectiveness and productivity.
Stay tuned for an upcoming template.