To Workshop or NOT to Workshop?

When are workshops essential, and when are they not

This is a crucial question to consider when approaching various tasks and projects. When do several heads think better than one? And when do we become too many? The short answer is that it depends on what you're trying to solve.

Some involve many people in their work, while others prefer doing things alone. But if you want to deliver something outstanding, choose your way of working based on the problem you're facing.

When is it wise to solve challenges through a workshop, and when is it not the best solution?

A workshop is the solution when…

Innovation is needed.

When we need to think in new thoughts, we need to get more perspectives into the process. More people equal more new thoughts.

We are stuck.

if we cannot move forward with a challenge, it might be wise to get several people's thoughts on the problem and see several possible alternatives.

You are facing complex issues.

A complex issue is often described as not having a clear picture of the desired outcome. Complex issues often contain many uncertain or unknown factors. Therefore, the goal for the final product is formed as the work progresses, and a workshop mindset will help.

The start of a process or project.

We all have our ways of approaching issues. This can shape the understanding of a process or project. Therefore, it is important in the initial phase of processes or projects that more people come forward with their understanding so that the understanding of the task isn't nailed down by just one person's mindset.

During evaluation.

The expression "as you ask, so you get answers" says a lot about why evaluations do not always become valuable. When work is to be evaluated, it's important to find the right questions in advance and see if the interpretation of the answers is valid. Here, several heads think better and create more learning points from the evaluation.

Decisions that affect many.

Sometimes it's important to work out solutions with a high degree of consensus on the issue and the path you should take together moving forward. This could be strategic choices about the development or implementation of a new product or ways of working.  

Note! Some decisions that affect many do not fall into this category. Tough decisions, such as downsizing, cannot and should not involve everyone. If someone is directly affected part and has a lot to lose or gain from a particular outcome, these people should usually be kept out of the discussions.

A workshop is NOT the solution when…

Something should be delegated.

A bad habit some leaders or employees have is that they use diversity because they don't dare to delegate or decide. They hide in the crowd, pretending that it's important that we all agree on this. But the real issue is that they don't dare or aren´t capable of making a decision.

We're afraid that not everyone will be seen and heard.

We choose to involve everyone who might have an opinion or an idea because we are too afraid of leaving someone out.

Note! Involving many can take some people away from doing tasks that might be more important.

The tasks are simple and not too complicated.

Don't use workshop methods when the tasks are simple. If one person can find the answer themselves, let them do so without involving others.

Some workshop work can be done alone.

Even if you work in a team, it's important to be aware of when you should gather and when you work separately. Working in a team doesn't mean that everything should be solved together all the time. We must, even in a team, work individually and with concentration on individual tasks, and then bring what you have found out back to the next team meeting or workshop.

Do you want to be a better workshop facilitator?

Guess what? You can!
José Manuel Redondo Lopera and I are running a workshop leader program that starts on October 22^nd. This program will teach you the basics of running a successful workshop and give you a toolbox of proven methods for facilitating engaging and result-giving workshops.

The program consists of a full course day in Oslo, followed by two learning webinars and two individual coaching sessions. You also get access to our learning platform, which includes methods we use in this program and many more to explore. 
Want to know more?

Check out the program's website for more information.

Note! The workshop leader program is held in Norwegian this time. If you are interested to attend our English version of the program, please let us know and we will come back to you.

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About the author

Per Vestli is an experienced team and leadership developer. His approach incorporates elements of fun and engaging methods which are grounded in evidence-based practices. He is always dedicated to fostering genuine improvements in team dynamics, leadership effectiveness, and organizational productivity.

With over two decades of experience in facilitation, coaching, and leadership development, he brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to every engagement.

Whether it's enhancing communication, streamlining processes, or developing leadership capabilities, his focus is always on creating tangible, long-term value for organizations and individuals alike.