Preparation
01 · Define the purpose
- Establish the objective of the activity: Generating ideas for a project? Solving a specific problem? Reflecting on a particular topic?
- Generating ideas for a project?
- Solving a specific problem?
- Reflecting on a particular topic?
02 · Prepare materials
- Flip charts, whiteboards, or sticky notes to record generated ideas.
- Timer or stopwatch to control the time.
03 · Organize participants
- Divide the total group into subgroups of six people.
- If there are more than six people per subgroup, adjust the discussion time to ensure fairness.
04 · Physical or virtual space
- If in-person, organize tables or areas for the groups.
- If virtual, use platforms that allow for separate breakout rooms.
Step-by-step instructions
1
Introduction to the purpose
- Explain the objective of the activity and how it will be carried out.
- Present the topic or problem to be discussed, ensuring everyone understands it.
2
Formation of groups
- Divide participants into groups of six.
- Assign a facilitator or responsible person in each group to moderate the discussion.
3
Small group discussion
- Each group discusses the assigned topic for six minutes.
- Ask them to record key ideas, solutions, or reflections on flip charts, sticky notes, or digital tools.
4
Rotation or presentation (optional)
- Once the time is up, groups may rotate to discuss a new aspect of the topic or present their ideas to the rest of the group.
5
Group synthesis
- Each group shares their results in a plenary session.
- The facilitator organizes key ideas and highlights recurring patterns or themes.
6
Reflection and closing
- Reflect with the group on the process and the results obtained.
- Highlight how this activity fosters equal participation and quick thinking.
Materials
Flip charts, whiteboards, or sticky notes.
Markers or digital tools to record ideas.
Timer or stopwatch to manage time.
Digital tools
Practical recommendations
Keep time strict
Ensure the six-minute limit is strictly followed to maintain the pace.
Encourage equal participation
Make sure all group members have the opportunity to contribute.
Organize ideas clearly
Use a structured format to record and present contributions.
Reinforce the purpose
Connect the outcomes to the initial objective of the activity.
Inspiration
Situations where the Phillips 6/6 dynamic can be useful:
- Generating ideas for creative projects.
- Identifying quick solutions to specific problems.
- Exploring different perspectives on a topic.
- Reflecting on complex concepts as a team.
- Making group decisions efficiently.
- Prioritizing actions in a project or initiative.
- Evaluating proposals in their early stages.
- Encouraging equal participation from all members.
- Gathering diverse opinions in a large group.
- Planning strategies in a short amount of time.
- Developing collaborative approaches to solving challenges.
- Facilitating debates on controversial or complex topics.
- Preparing teams for larger-scale activities.
- Promoting cohesion and idea exchange in newly formed teams.
