Wujec: Draw Toast
Systems thinker Tom Wujec designed a simple workshop exercise to highlight the complexity of thought and influence that surround problem solving and change. And it simply involves drawing toast. Wujec explains;
DrawToast workshops are a great way to get groups to think freshly about mental models. In just 3 minutes, each person sketches a diagram of how to make toast. When comparing diagrams, people are shocked at how diverse the diagrams are, revealing a wide range of models of what's important in making toast. It's a great launch pad for drawing out what's really important to the group.
Drawing toast making sounds simple, but it turns out that when we're asked to explain the process we all have different ideas about what to do and when. And it's just the same when we approach any other task, including problem solving. We add in extra information and thoughts based on our own expectation and experience. What's really important to the process gets lost. When thinking about complexity we need to ask what's really going on? And also: What is really useful and necessary?
Here is Tom Wujec's guide to running a draw toast challenge, and you can watch Wujec's presentation below. (You can download Wujec's Making Toast guide here; Draw Toast Challenge).
Step 1: Prepare
Get the ingredients: felt markers, thick paper stock, sticky notes or index cards, and masking tape. Stage your room with tables, chairs, and a clear wall where you can post your work. It’s important to have enough room for all participants to see everyone’s creations.
Step 2: Invite
In your invitation, set expectations that your meeting will focus on building a systems model of your challenge and that you’ll begin with a simple design exercise.
Step 3: Conduct
Run the meeting informally. Hand out the markers and paper and deliver the Keynote, PowerPoint, or PDF presentation that provides the instructions. Keep the meeting lively by reflecting on the drawings.
Step 4: Apply
The real value of the DrawToast workshop is that it warms people up to address the pressing issues, giving them a vocabulary and system to unpack their problem in fresh ways.