Lean Coffee
The aim of a Lean Coffee workshop is to facilitate open and collaborative discussions among participants on Lean and Agile topics in a structured and time-boxed manner. This format allows for:
- Emergent Agenda: Participants propose discussion topics or questions related to Lean and Agile at the beginning of the session. This creates an emergent agenda, ensuring that the topics discussed are relevant and meaningful to the group.
- Collaborative Learning: It fosters a learning environment where participants can share their experiences, insights, and challenges related to Lean and Agile practices. This collaborative approach encourages knowledge sharing and peer-to-peer learning.
- Time Management: The discussions are time-boxed, typically using a short timer for each topic. This ensures that conversations stay focused and don't overrun, making the most of the available time.
- Adaptability: Participants can vote to prioritize which topics get discussed first, allowing the group to adapt and address the most pressing issues or questions.
- Flexibility: Lean Coffee can be used in various settings, from team meetings to larger gatherings like conferences or community meetups. It's a versatile format that can accommodate different group sizes and contexts.
- Engagement: Since participants have a say in the agenda, they are more engaged and invested in the discussions. This can lead to more meaningful conversations and actionable takeaways.
Overall, the aim of a Lean Coffee workshop is to promote engagement, knowledge sharing, and problem-solving in a collaborative and time-efficient manner, making it a valuable tool for Lean and Agile teams and communities.
10'
Introduction
Start the workshop by introducing the concept of Lean Coffee. Explain that it is a structured, agenda-less meeting where participants collaboratively create the agenda and discuss topics of interest. Emphasize the principles of respect, collaboration, and self-organization. Provide an overview of the workshop agenda and set expectations for active participation.
Tips : Encourage participants to come prepared with topics they would like to discuss during the Lean Coffee sessions. Remind them to be open-minded and respectful of others' ideas and opinions.
Outcome : Participants will understand the purpose and format of Lean Coffee and be ready to actively engage in the workshop.
15'
Creating the Agenda
Guide participants through the process of creating the agenda for the Lean Coffee sessions. Provide them with sticky notes and markers. Ask each participant to write down one topic they would like to discuss and place it on a designated wall or board. Once all topics are collected, have participants vote on the topics they find most interesting or relevant. Prioritize the topics based on the number of votes.
Tips : Encourage participants to think about topics related to lean principles, such as waste reduction, continuous improvement, and value stream mapping. Remind them to keep the topics concise and specific.
Outcome : A prioritized agenda for the Lean Coffee sessions will be created.
20'
Lean Coffee Session 1
Facilitate the first Lean Coffee session based on the topics prioritized in the agenda. Set a timer for each topic discussion (e.g., 5 minutes per topic). Encourage participants to share their thoughts, experiences, and insights related to the topic. Use a visual aid, such as a Kanban board, to capture key points and action items discussed during the session.
Tips : Remind participants to actively listen and respect others' opinions. Encourage them to build on each other's ideas and ask clarifying questions.
Outcome : Participants will engage in meaningful discussions and generate valuable insights related to the chosen topics.
10'
Break
Take a short break to allow participants to refresh and recharge. Use this time to set up for the next Lean Coffee session.
Tips : Provide light refreshments and encourage participants to network and engage in informal conversations during the break.
Outcome : Participants will have a chance to rest and prepare for the next session.
20'
Lean Coffee Session 2
Facilitate the second Lean Coffee session using the remaining topics from the agenda. Follow the same process as in the first session, ensuring equal participation and time allocation for each topic. Encourage participants to reflect on the discussions from the previous session and build upon them.
Tips : Encourage participants to challenge assumptions and think critically during the discussions. Remind them to focus on actionable takeaways and potential solutions.
Outcome : Participants will continue to explore and discuss relevant topics related to lean principles.
10'
Wrap-up and Reflection
Conclude the workshop by facilitating a reflection session. Ask participants to share their key learnings, insights, and any action items they plan to implement based on the discussions. Summarize the main takeaways and emphasize the importance of continuous learning and improvement.
Tips : Create a safe and non-judgmental environment for participants to share their reflections. Encourage them to support and inspire each other in their lean journey.
Outcome : Participants will reflect on their learnings and identify actionable steps to apply lean principles in their work.