Introduction:
When we consolidate, we mesh together two or more separate ideas into one new statement. From the Oxford Dictionary: “combine (a number of things) into a single more effective or coherent whole.”
Used for
Like all MM competencies, Consolidating is used in multiple places in all kinds of Algorithms and thinking projects. We use it whenever our previous work has produced two or more ideas and we need to bring them together in order to proceed.
We will use it following a Brainstorming/prioritization session, whenever that work has left us with a few ideas that we’d like to consolidate into one.
As a specific variation, we use it when we have completed a Mining Information step and have multiple nuggets.
Input/ Output
The input is two or more ideas which were created by previous steps in a MM algorithm.
The output is a statement which combines the input into a coherent summary.
How to
- Review the ideas which were the output of previous steps. .
- Brainstorm. Create one-to-three beginning statements and then refine those statements by adding, subtracting or changing the language.
“Ask, “How can we merge these ideas into one coherent statement?”
This will typically produce more than one answer. If you are working by yourself, write each statement out and then examine it. Edit it by adding, subtracting or changing words until you arrive at one statement that seems right.
This would be a good time to use the Multiple-Voices Magnifier, and have someone else review your work and comment on it.
If you are working with a team, follow the same process: Begin with one statement and then add, subtract or change until the team is satisfied with the statement.
Variations
Consolidating a list of nuggets into a coherent initiative. See the “Nuggets into Bars” competency.
