Graphic Facilitation

What it is

Graphic facilitation is a technique for visualizing or scribbling information. During a group brainstorming or workshop session on any subject matter the graphic facilitator is dedicated to capturing the discussion or presentation in a visual format.

The format of capturing is usually sketching on a flipchart or someplace that everyone can see it. This technique helps to stimulate left-brain thinking - the visual part of the brain. It keeps people’s interest, as there’s always something exciting to look at. It’s visual and it’s fun.

This technique is particularly good for obtaining an overall sense of meeting and having something tangible to deliver to project stakeholders. Capturing what people say in images can beat the overload of post-its often used to take notes.

What you get

During the session you get a visual that [participants can respond to during the session.  Afterworlds you are left with an instant visual summary to show the project stakeholders. This can help you save time as there is less synthesis after a session

When to use it

Use it to capture a visual summary of any group session. However this technique doesn’t capture the detail and shouldn’t be used to replace minute taking or digital recording so may not be appropriate in a high level strategic meeting.