Pulse Check

Word Statement Exercise to Check for Understanding

Setting Up For Success

Description

The 15 Word Statement is an alignment tool that facilitates the sharing and comparing of individual and team perceptions and definitions. It is also a great “leveler” as it enables each individual to share their personal perspectives and ideas equally in the group setting.

Purpose 

Used for testing for alignment and developing a shared meaning.

Process

Step 1: 

Instruct each team member to draft a brief (15-word) statement on a piece of paper or on Google Docs stating their perception of a key question. The key question might be: “What were the key changes that were discussed at today’s meeting?” or  “What are our current priorities”  or “Our project is about….” Or “What is your vision for the next 6 months?” or other questions that surfaces diverse team member perceptions and ideas.

Step 2: 

Remind them to print clearly and BIG, so others will be able to easily read their words. It may be useful to give team members a few words to build upon (such as
“This project’s major mission is to.....”) where they add 15 words to complete the sentence.

Step 3:

Post individual charts along a wall or online and ask the team to read all of
the charts; then ask them to highlight/underline keywords or phrases that they feel best capture the important aspects of the question; they can do this as a team or as individuals, depending on the size of the group.

Step 4:

Also, ask team members to identify “fuzzy” or vague words or statements so the author can discuss or clarify their intended meaning. ("What does it look like?" or "How will we know it when we have it?“)

Tips & Best Practices

  • In addition to completing clear statements or phrases, some members may find it easier to write 15 keywords or a set of bullets consisting of about 15 words.  
  • There is nothing magical about the use of “15” words. The number 15 is only used to encourage concise thinking and sharing of thoughts. Some people may not be able to use all 15 and others may go a few words over. IT’S O.K.! 
  • Encourage open discussion and inquiry to explore and clarify unusual or seemingly out-of-the-box ideas.

Picture1

  • Circle words or ideas that need to be clarified
  • Underline common words/phrases