A structured workshop framework that helps teams identify challenges, generate solutions, and create action plans in under 60 minutes. Perfect for breaking through decision paralysis and driving tangible outcomes with minimal facilitation experience required.
What is a Simple Lightning Decision Jam for Facilitators and Product Teams?
The Simple Lightning Decision Jam (LDJ) is a time-boxed workshop format designed to help teams quickly identify problems, prioritize challenges, and generate actionable solutions. Using a sailboat metaphor, participants capture what's moving the team forward and what's holding them back, then transform key challenges into "How Might We" questions that drive focused ideation.
What Problem Does the Simple Lightning Decision Jam Template Solve for Workshop Facilitators?
This template addresses the common challenge of unproductive meetings where teams discuss problems without reaching decisions. For product managers and facilitators, it provides:
Structure to prevent circular discussions
Silent voting mechanisms to eliminate bias
A clear path from problem identification to actionable tasks
Visual organization that keeps teams aligned throughout the process
How to Use the Simple Lightning Decision Jam Template in Your Next Workshop
Identify Forces (5 minutes): Participants silently note what's moving the team forward and what's holding them back.
Vote on Challenges (3 minutes): Team members place voting dots on the most critical challenges.
Reframe as "How Might We" Questions (3 minutes): Transform problems into opportunity statements.
Select Priority Challenge (2 minutes): Vote on the most critical HMW statement.
Brainstorm Solutions (5 minutes): Generate ideas to address the selected challenge.
Vote on Solutions (4 minutes): Identify the most promising ideas.
Impact/Effort Evaluation (10 minutes): Plot solutions on an Impact/Effort matrix.
Create Action Plan (10 minutes): Define concrete next steps for high-impact, low-effort solutions.
FAQs About the Simple Lightning Decision Jam for Product Teams
How long does a Simple Lightning Decision Jam workshop take?
The complete workshop runs approximately 45-60 minutes, making it perfect for busy product teams.
How many participants work best for a Simple Lightning Decision Jam?
The template works optimally with 3-8 participants but can be adapted for larger groups.
What makes the Simple Lightning Decision Jam different from other decision-making frameworks?
Its focus on silent ideation and voting reduces groupthink, while the structured time-boxing keeps teams moving efficiently toward actionable outcomes.
