Paper Plate Challenge
The Paper Plate Challenge is a visual and collaborative activity that helps teams break down large, complex goals into smaller, achievable steps. By physically mapping out these steps on paper plates, participants gain clarity on the sequence of actions needed to achieve their desired outcome.
Use this method when a team is struggling to define a clear path towards a long-term goal or when a campaign feels overwhelming. It's particularly useful for strategic planning sessions where you need to foster shared understanding and commitment to a series of objectives.
Solves: Overwhelmed by large, complex goals; Difficulty prioritizing actions; Lack of shared understanding of the strategic path
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Step 1: Divide participants into small groups of 4-5 and have them spread out. Place a symbolic representation of the vision (e.g., a bowl of fruit) in the center of the room. (5 minutes)
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Step 2: Give each participant 5-6 paper plates and explain that they will represent the stepping stones toward their vision. Each plate should contain a specific, achievable outcome. (5 minutes)
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Step 3: Allow groups to work on their individual paper plate sequences, encouraging them to discuss and challenge each other's ideas. Facilitators should circulate to provide support and coaching. (30 minutes)
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Step 4: Interrupt the groups for a brief debrief. Ask them to identify the qualities of good outcomes and introduce the concept of SMART objectives (Sequential, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Time-specific). (10 minutes)
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Step 5: Give participants additional time to refine their paper plate sequences based on the debrief. (15 minutes)
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Step 6: After a short break, conduct a final debrief. Invite participants to share their campaign paths and discuss the usefulness of the exercise. (15 minutes)
- Encourage participants to be specific and realistic when defining their outcomes.
- Remind participants that some outcomes may be external factors that influence the campaign.
- If the group is working on the same campaign, have them create the objectives/plates together as a team.
- Use different colored plates to represent different types of outcomes (e.g., advocacy, fundraising, education).