Force Field Analysis

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A force field analysis is used to investigate the balance of power involved in resolving an issue. It presents the "positives" and "negatives" of a situation for easy comparison. Force fields allow teams to come to a collective decision about a permanent result, and encourage honest consideration of real underlying root causes and solutions.

How to Perform a Force Field Analysis

1. Draw Chart

  1. Draw a large letter T.
  2. At the top of the T, write the issue or problem.
  3. To the far right of the top of the T, describe the ideal situation you would like to achieve.

Force Field: Template

2. Fill in Chart

  1. Brainstorm the forces that drive you toward your ideal situation, and that restrain movement toward the ideal state (note: these may be external or internal factors)
  2. List the forces bringing you closer to the ideal on the left side of the chart, and those pushing you away on the right side.

3. Prioritize

Prioritize the driving forces that can be strengthened, and identify the restraints that would allow for the most progress toward the ideal state if they were eliminated.

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Further Reading

More Information

Examples of Force Fields

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