Introduction: What You’ll Learn
In this simulation, you'll practice running a meeting to discuss a controversial decision about changing a core technology. The scenario helps you navigate differing opinions, maintain respectful dialogue, and guide the team toward consensus or a clear action plan.
You’ll practice:
- Clearly presenting the proposal with context
- Facilitating balanced discussion among all stakeholders
- Addressing concerns and objections thoroughly
- Steering toward a decision and planning for follow-up
Step-by-Step Simulation
Scene 1: Setting the Stage
Facilitator: "Hey everyone, thanks for joining. Today, we need to chat about the idea of switching our backend framework from Framework A to Framework B. This change could really boost our scalability and performance, which is important since we’re expecting more traffic and want to cut down on downtime. But I know it's a big step, so let’s dive into the details and see where we stand."
Facilitator (as the proposer): "Our current setup with Framework A has been holding us back a bit. We’ve seen some hiccups with scaling and performance. Framework B has shown some promising improvements in those areas. I’m proposing a phased migration to ease us into it."
Facilitator: "Okay, that’s the gist. I’d love to hear your thoughts, especially any concerns you might have. Priya, do you want to kick things off?"
Scene 2: Gathering Feedback
Priya: "My main worry is about the learning curve for the team. A switch like this could slow us down at first."
Facilitator: "That makes sense, Priya. We’ll need to think about some solid training sessions. Leo, what’s your take?"
Leo: "I’m all for it. Framework A has been a pain with our newer products. Framework B might be the fix we need."
Facilitator: "Thanks, Leo. It’s good to hear both sides. Let’s also hear from John in product management and Claire from operations."
John (Product Management): "Performance improvements are great, but we need to make sure we don’t miss any deadlines during the switch."
Claire (Operations): "We’ll need to look at how this change affects our deployment processes and make sure our infrastructure can handle it."
Facilitator: "Great points, John and Claire. We’ll need to keep those in mind as we move forward."
Scene 3: Addressing Concerns and Building Consensus
Facilitator: "We’ve heard some important points about training, project impacts, and operational needs. Let's brainstorm some solutions. Priya, any ideas on tackling the learning curve?"
Priya: "How about a phased rollout with some focused training sessions?"
Facilitator: "That sounds like a solid plan. We can start with some training and ease into the transition. John, any thoughts on keeping our product timelines on track?"
John: "Maybe we could have a dedicated team handle the backend changes while others keep pushing features."
Facilitator: "And Claire, do you think we’re ready on the infrastructure side?"
Claire: "We’ll do a capacity check and see if any upgrades are needed."
Scene 4: Deciding and Next Steps
Facilitator: "Alright, it seems like there’s some cautious support for the switch if we handle the learning curve, product timelines, and infrastructure readiness. Can we agree to start with a small pilot team?"
(Nods and verbal agreement from the team.)
Facilitator: "Great. Let’s test it out with a small team and see how it goes after one sprint. Priya, can you work on a training plan? Leo, can you lead the pilot team? Claire, let’s get started on that infrastructure assessment."
(Everyone agrees to their tasks.)
Facilitator: "Perfect. I’ll keep everyone updated and we’ll regroup in two weeks. Thanks for a productive discussion, everyone. Let’s keep this momentum going."
Mini Roleplay Challenges
Challenge 1: Sara brings up budget concerns during the discussion.
- Best Response: “Good catch, Sara — let’s loop in finance and see what’s possible.”
Challenge 2: Leo is very enthusiastic, brushing off concerns.
- Best Response: “Love the enthusiasm, Leo. Let’s make sure we address everything so the whole team’s on board.”
Challenge 3: Priya thinks the meeting is moving too quickly.
- Best Response: “Thanks for pointing that out, Priya. Let’s take a moment to revisit anything you’re concerned about.”
Optional Curveball Mode
- A senior leader joins unexpectedly and questions the proposal.
- A team member suggests an alternative not previously discussed.
- Technical issues disrupt the meeting flow.
Practice maintaining focus and adapting to keep the meeting productive.
Reflection Checklist
Proposal Presentation
- Was the proposal clear and compelling?
- Did I invite and acknowledge all viewpoints?
Facilitation Skills
- Did I manage differing opinions constructively?
- Was I able to keep the discussion focused and balanced?
Decision Making
- Did we reach a consensus or clear next steps?
- Were all concerns addressed or noted for follow-up?
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Shutting down dissent or moving too quickly to a decision
- Failing to provide enough information for informed feedback
- Allowing the discussion to become unproductive or combative
- Not summarizing or clarifying action items at the end