Nominal Group Technique

(NGT)
It is used after round robin
brainstorming. It is called nominal
because during the session the group
does not really engage in much
interaction.
 The nominal group technique can be completed
in only six steps:

1. Make certain the group understands and agrees upon the

problem after using the free-wheeling, round robin, or
written slip brainstorming procedures.
2. Divide the group into smaller groups.
3. Create a master list of ideas, causes, or solutions for each
small group to see.
4. Ask members or small groups to prioritize or rank each
item.
5. Have team leader collect and total ranking from individuals
or small groups.
6. The idea or problem with the highest total is the most
important to the total group.
 
 Affinity Diagram

It is a technique to prioritize,
organize, and group together
brainstorming ideas that have a natural
“affinity” to one another.
 
 Each group should complete the affinity diagram
in ten steps:
 
1. Select a phrase, theme, critical question, or
insight by consensus.
2. Break into small groups (four to six people)
to brainstorm ideas.
3. Make certain that everyone is brainstorming
the same issue or problem.
4. Ensure that all ideas are recorded without
discussion.
5. Brainstorm ideas using round robin, notepad
or card procedures. Adhesive-backed note
paper work well because they are easy to move
and rearrange.
6. Write ideas generated on Post-its and place on flipchart for all to
see.
7. Rearrange and regroup ideas and seek input from the teams
for other ideas that seem to have an affinity or seem to be related.
8. Make a final consolidation of categories and ideas. No more
than four teams working in categories should remain.
9. Publish group ideas and share with others for discussion.
10. Apply or use what has been learned from the affinity diagram.
 
 Example of Affinity Diagram:

What are barriers to change?

Fear Status-quo Buy in

Culture Commitment
Intimidation

Too old Suboptimization Too expensive

New skills Traditional New fad

Management

Training Empowermen Time

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