Preparation
01 · Define the purpose
- Establish the goal: Planning a project? Prioritizing pending tasks? Organizing team or group ideas?
02 · Prepare materials
- Physical format: Three columns labeled Now, Next, Later. Sticky notes or index cards to record tasks or ideas.
- Three columns labeled Now, Next, Later.
- Sticky notes or index cards to record tasks or ideas.
- Digital format: Use digital tools with predefined column templates.
- Use digital tools with predefined column templates.
03 · Establish priority criteria
- Now: Immediate actions, urgent tasks, or those with the highest impact.
- Next: Important activities that are not urgent but need to be done soon.
- Later: Ideas or tasks that are lower priority or planned for the future.
04 · Organize the space
- Set up an area where participants can collaborate easily to classify tasks or ideas.
Step-by-step instructions
1
Introduce the purpose
- Explain that the goal is to organize tasks or ideas based on their temporal priority.
- Present the three categories and how the methodology will be used for planning actions.
2
Generate tasks or ideas
- Ask participants to write tasks, projects, or ideas on sticky notes or index cards.
- If there is already a task list, review it as a group to ensure understanding.
3
Classify into columns
- Participants take turns placing each task or idea in one of the three columns (Now, Next, Later).
- Facilitate discussions if there are uncertainties or disagreements about classification.
4
Review and adjust
- Go through the columns as a group to ensure all tasks are correctly categorized based on the established criteria.
5
Define concrete actions
- For Now tasks, assign responsibilities and set immediate deadlines.
- For Next tasks, define an approximate timeline and any necessary preparatory steps.
- For Later tasks, plan periodic reviews to adjust priorities as needed.
6
Closure and reflection
- Summarize key decisions and emphasize the importance of prioritization for effective progress.
Materials
Sticky notes or index cards to record ideas.
Whiteboard, flip chart, or digital tools to create the columns.
Markers or pens for writing.
Practical recommendations
Clarify criteria
Ensure everyone understands what each category means.
Encourage consensus
Facilitate discussions if doubts or disagreements arise.
Document decisions
Save the final outcome for implementation and future review.
Follow up
Regularly review tasks in each category to adjust priorities as needed.
