Dialogue mapping, developed by Jeff Conklin, is a facilitation technique that helps groups navigate complex, “wicked” problems by making their thinking visible in a map. Starting with a question prompt, a group can explore possible solutions.
As we saw earlier, the action map models the full range of possible actions, ideas, or responses available in a situation. Through a mapping convention (? for unanswered questions, + for pros and – for cons as well as branching maps for going deeper into the space), it keeps multiple ideas visible and valid before jumping to conclusions.
The practice weaves coherence across multiple perspectives before narrowing down into decisions. It’s an options-weaving practice, which can make double binds and other context dynamics visible.
Wiser organizations 