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Lightning Decision Jam (LDJ)

Carolina Poll

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Transform your team's decision-making process with our Lightning Decision Jam (LDJ) template – a rapid, structured workshop framework that takes you from problem identification to actionable solutions in under 60 minutes. Perfect for breaking through decision paralysis and driving results-focused outcomes.

What is a Lightning Decision Jam (LDJ) for Workshop Facilitators and Designers?

Lightning Decision Jam is a time-boxed collaborative exercise that eliminates endless discussions and replaces them with a clear, action-oriented framework. This template guides facilitators through a proven three-phase process (Collect, Create, Commit) that transforms vague problems into concrete action items without getting stuck in debate cycles.

What Problem Does the Lightning Decision Jam (LDJ) Template Solve for Strategic Consultants?

For consultants and strategists facing:

  • Teams stuck in circular discussions without making decisions

  • Meetings dominated by the loudest voices rather than the best ideas

  • Difficulty prioritizing multiple challenges or opportunities

  • Lack of clear action items after brainstorming sessionsLDJ creates a structured environment where every voice is heard, decisions are made objectively, and the path forward is clear and actionable.

How to Use the Lightning Decision Jam (LDJ) Template

  1. Collect Phase (15 minutes)

    • Define your goal and gather challenges

    • Identify what's moving you forward and holding you back

    • Silently vote on priority issues

  2. Create Phase (15 minutes)

    • Reframe problems as "How Might We" statements

    • Focus on the highest-impact challenges

    • Rapidly brainstorm potential solutions

    • Vote silently on the best ideas

  3. Commit Phase (20 minutes)

    • Plot solutions on an Impact/Effort matrix

    • Define concrete action items for high-impact, low-effort solutions

    • Assign ownership and timelines

FAQs About Lightning Decision Jam (LDJ)

How large should my team be for an effective Lightning Decision Jam?

Ideal LDJ sessions include 4-8 participants, though the template can be adapted for larger groups with proper time management.

Can Lightning Decision Jam replace regular meetings?

While not a replacement for all meetings, LDJ is perfect for decision-making sessions that typically devolve into unproductive discussions.

How often should teams use the Lightning Decision Jam process?

Many design teams and product squads run weekly LDJs to maintain momentum and continuously address emerging challenges.

Transform your team's approach to problem-solving today with our Lightning Decision Jam template – because better decisions shouldn't require more time, just better structure.

Carolina Poll

Designer & Workshop Facilitator

I’m a Strategic Product Designer and Workshop Facilitator with 17+ years of experience helping teams turn complexity into clarity. I create practical, user-friendly templates that support better collaboration, faster decision-making, and impactful product design. Let’s make teamwork smoother and more meaningful—one board at a time.


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