Delegation Poker

Delegation Poker is an interactive tool that helps establish a consensus on delegation levels between the team and management. Using cards, participants explore and discuss responsibilities and autonomy, fostering a better understanding of roles and shared decision-making. This game builds trust and helps overcome fears related to delegation.

Walkthrough

1. 1

   Introduction

   10 min

   The facilitator explains the objective of Delegation Poker: to clarify delegation levels and enhance the team's autonomy. They briefly introduce the concept of the seven levels of delegation, ranging from command to total delegation. Participants are invited to ask questions to ensure they fully understand the process.

   Tip — Use concrete examples from your organisation to illustrate the different levels of delegation.

2. 2

   Card Distribution

   5 min

   Each participant receives a set of cards representing the seven levels of delegation. The facilitator ensures that everyone understands the meaning of each card. It is important to check that each participant feels comfortable with the material before starting the game.

   Tip — Print the cards on coloured paper to make them more attractive and easy to distinguish.

3. 3

   Situation Selection

   10 min

   The facilitator asks participants to think about concrete situations in their work where delegation is necessary. Each participant notes one or two situations on post-its. Then, the group collectively chooses a few situations to discuss during the game.

   Tip — Encourage participants to choose situations that are currently sources of tension or confusion.

4. 4

   Card Game

   30 min

   For each chosen situation, participants select a card that represents the level of delegation they deem appropriate. Then, each person reveals their card and explains their choice. A discussion follows to reach a consensus on the optimal level of delegation for each situation.

   Tip — Facilitate the discussion by asking open-ended questions to explore the reasons behind each choice.

5. 5

   Summary and Commitment

   15 min

   The facilitator summarises the consensual delegation levels for each situation. Participants discuss how they can apply these decisions in their daily work. They commit to experimenting with these levels of delegation for a set period and to return for an evaluation.

   Tip — Suggest setting a date for a follow-up to discuss results and necessary adjustments.

Variants

• Facilitate the game with managers and their teams to enhance mutual understanding.
• Use Delegation Poker in combination with the Managers Fears game to identify and overcome fears related to delegation.
• Adapt the game for individual coaching sessions focusing on the coachee's specific situations.