Team Canvas

The Team Canvas is a visual tool that helps teams clarify their goals, values, roles, strengths, and collaboration rules. Ideal for launching a new team or revitalising dynamics after a crisis, it promotes alignment and collaboration among members. By using this structured framework, participants can better understand mutual expectations and commit to common objectives.

Walkthrough

1. 1

   Introduction and Objectives

   10 min

   The facilitator begins by explaining the purpose of the workshop: to align the team on its goals, values, and roles. They present the Team Canvas as a visualisation tool to structure this discussion. Participants are invited to ask questions to ensure they fully understand the workshop's objectives.

   Tip — Use a concrete example of past success to illustrate the positive impact of the Team Canvas.

2. 2

   Presentation of the Team Canvas

   10 min

   The facilitator presents each section of the Team Canvas: common goals, values, roles, strengths, collaboration rules, and needs. They briefly explain what is expected in each section. Participants are encouraged to reflect individually on their potential contributions.

   Tip — Prepare a whiteboard or a large poster of the Team Canvas for better visualisation.

3. 3

   Discussion on Common Goals

   20 min

   Participants discuss the common goals of the team. The facilitator guides the discussion by asking open-ended questions to encourage participation. Ideas are noted in the appropriate section of the Canvas. This step ensures that all members share the same vision.

   Tip — Encourage the use of post-its so that each participant can contribute their ideas anonymously if necessary.

4. 4

   Clarification of Values and Roles

   20 min

   The facilitator invites participants to share and discuss the values they consider important for the team. Then, each person specifies their role and responsibilities. This step helps clarify expectations and prevent potential conflicts.

   Tip — Encourage participants to share anecdotes that illustrate the team's values in action.

5. 5

   Identification of Strengths and Needs

   15 min

   Participants identify the strengths of the team, as well as the needs to achieve their goals. The facilitator encourages honest and constructive discussions. This step highlights available resources and gaps to be filled.

   Tip — Use questions like 'What makes us unique?' to stimulate reflection on strengths.

6. 6

   Establishment of Collaboration Rules

   15 min

   Participants discuss and agree on the collaboration rules to be followed. The facilitator ensures that all voices are heard and that the rules are clear and achievable. This step is crucial for ensuring harmonious cooperation.

   Tip — Ask each participant to propose a rule, then discuss their relevance together.

7. 7

   Summary and Commitment

   10 min

   The facilitator summarises the key points of the completed Team Canvas. Participants are invited to express their commitment to the defined goals and rules. This reinforces the sense of belonging and collective responsibility.

   Tip — Take a photo of the finalised Team Canvas and share it with the team for future reference.

Variants

• Add a 'Risks' section to discuss potential obstacles and mitigation plans.
• Use the Team Canvas online with digital collaborative tools for remote teams.
• Integrate a personal feedback session where each member shares their expectations of others.