TRIZ

Purpose

TRIZ (named after the Russian acronym for Theory of Inventive Problem Solving) is a Liberating Structure that helps groups identify counterproductive behaviours by first listing everything they could do to guarantee the worst possible outcome, then checking which of those behaviours are actually happening. It is a powerful way to surface taboo topics and create the will to stop harmful practices. Use it when a team is stuck in dysfunctional patterns they cannot name directly.

At a glance

• Group size: 6–40 people
• Duration: 35 minutes
• Difficulty: Intermediate
• Facilitation style: Structured
• Setting: Indoor / Remote-friendly

How to run

1. Frame the worst outcome (2 min): Ask: "How could we reliably achieve the worst possible result regarding [topic]?"
2. Generate the list (10 min): In small groups, brainstorm all actions that would guarantee failure. Go wild — encourage dark humour.
3. Reality check (10 min): Each group reviews the list and marks items that are actually happening right now, even partially.
4. Identify stop-doing items (8 min): Groups select the top 2–3 behaviours they are willing to stop immediately.
5. Plenary share (5 min): Each group shares its stop-doing commitments. Look for overlaps.

Materials needed

• Flip chart paper and markers per group
• Sticky notes
• Timer

Pitfalls & common mistakes

• Taking the brainstorm too seriously — the power of TRIZ is in the playful, indirect approach. Keep the energy light.
• Skipping the reality-check step — without it, the exercise stays hypothetical and loses its transformative punch.
• Pointing fingers — frame everything as "we" to keep the exercise safe and systemic.

Inclusion & accessibility

• The humour-driven approach lowers barriers for people who find direct confrontation stressful.
• Allow written contributions for those uncomfortable speaking about sensitive topics aloud.
• Be culturally sensitive — dark humour lands differently across cultures; read the room.

Variations

• TRIZ + 15% Solutions: After identifying stop-doing items, use 15% Solutions to find immediate first steps.
• Personal TRIZ: Each individual applies TRIZ to their own habits rather than the team's.
• TRIZ as retrospective: Use it instead of a traditional retrospective to surface systemic issues.

When NOT to use this

Avoid TRIZ when trust is very low or when the group includes people with positional power who might take offence at having their behaviour indirectly named. In those cases, build psychological safety first.

Source & further reading

Original TRIZ methodology by Genrich Altshuller (1946). Adapted as a Liberating Structure by Henri Lipmanowicz and Keith McCandless. See liberatingstructures.com.