You might be famliar with Liberating Structures (LS)? A collection of simple, powerful facilitation techniques that help groups break away from traditional, often restrictive, ways of interacting- we love them, I hope you you too! Developed to encourage more equitable participation, LS enables teams to tap into their collective intelligence, generate creative ideas, and build a deeper sense of engagement. So, some dots to join here ..
For those who are new to LS—or as a reintroduction for some—think of these structures as tools to liberate conversations, inspire new ideas, and generate genuine alignment in any group. Whether used in strategy or planning, project brainstorming, or problem-solving sessions, Liberating Structures helps to create a collaborative environment where every voice can be heard.
With BIG PICTURE, we aim to achieve similar outcomes: alignment, clarity, and engagement through structured, meaningful questions that spark discussion. Below, we’ve selected three questions from our BIG PICTURE Question Bank that demonstrate this alignment, with each question embodying the values of inclusivity, shared ownership, and strategic thinking at the heart of Liberating Structures.
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1. How could one small change in our Marketing create a ripple effect of positive outcomes out from our Team and so our Sales?
LS Alignment: This question aligns with the “1-2-4-All” structure, where each participant considers the impact of a small change individually, then shares in pairs, groups, and ultimately with the whole team. This method reveals insights into how marketing adjustments can impact team dynamics and sales outcomes, bringing collective insights to the forefront.
2. What’s the smallest possible adjustment in our Customer Care that could create a ripple effect of positive outcomes for our Process and then our Customer?
LS Alignment: This question resonates with “Ecocycle Planning,” where participants examine and position aspects of customer care in the lifecycle stages of development, maturity, and renewal. By focusing on small adjustments, teams can identify areas that may need nurturing or renewal to create positive ripple effects for process efficiency and customer satisfaction.
3. How might a minor shift in our Operations create a positive ripple effect from our Technology and into our Money?
LS Alignment: This question aligns well with the “Troika Consulting” structure, where colleagues work together as consultants to consider how a small shift in operations, perhaps through technology, could ultimately drive financial success. This structure enables peer-to-peer support and uncovers actionable ideas for operational improvements and financial impact.
These examples illustrate how BIG PICTURE questions can complement the inclusive, transformative approach of Liberating Structures, providing a foundation for meaningful, strategic discussions. By integrating BIG PICTURE questions with Liberating Structures, we create an environment where all ideas can flourish and strategic thinking becomes a shared experience.
Ready to bring this approach into your own work? Download our BIG PICTURE Cheat Sheet for more strategic questions that foster collaboration and innovation. Check out LiberatingStructures.com for more info,
