What

  The Affinity Diagram is an interactive data collection method, which enables the identification and sorting of large quantities of ideas within a short time frame.
Affinity means likeness or close relationship.
When

 The Affinity is used when a non-judgemental process is required for gathering and categorizing ideas

How 1.Clearly define and write the topic for the session at the top of the flip chart. 

WHAT MAKES SYDNEY A GREAT CITY?

2. All team members individually brainstorm ideas relating to the stated question or topic. As brainstorming takes place, individuals silently write each idea on a sticky note or note card and place it in front of them. Place only one idea on each slip of paper/card.

3.  Team members randomly place ideas on the topic flip chart or stick them on a smooth surface such as a mirror or a white board.

Sydney Harbour
noisy
movies
parks
Opera House
restaurants
different people
shopping
tall buildings
buses
trains
walking

4. Team members, as a group, through negotiation, place ideas in like categories.

buses

parks

The Opera House

shopping

noisy

trains

restaurants

Sydney Harbour

movies

 different people

 

 

tall buildings

walking

 

5. Finally label each category by writing it on the flip chart or placing a header.

Transport

Places to Go

Landmarks

Things to Do

Descriptions

buses

parks

The Opera House

shopping

noisy

trains
restaurants
Sydney Harbour
movies
different people

 

 

tall buildings

walking

 

Samples Types of Questions which could be supported by the use of an Affinity Diagram
What makes a quality classroom?
What are the causes of our poor performance?
What do I already know about frogs?
Downloads
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