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skills/facilitation-patterns/SKILL.md

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+---
+name: facilitation-patterns
+description: Use when running meetings, workshops, brainstorms, design sprints, retrospectives, or team decision-making sessions. Apply when need structured group discussion, managing diverse stakeholder input, ensuring equal participation, handling conflict or groupthink, or when user mentions facilitation, workshop design, meeting patterns, session planning, or running effective collaborative sessions.
+---
+# Facilitation Patterns
+
+## Table of Contents
+- [Purpose](#purpose)
+- [When to Use](#when-to-use)
+- [What Is It?](#what-is-it)
+- [Workflow](#workflow)
+- [Common Patterns](#common-patterns)
+- [Guardrails](#guardrails)
+- [Quick Reference](#quick-reference)
+
+## Purpose
+
+Facilitation Patterns provide structured approaches for running productive group sessions—from quick standups to multi-day workshops. This skill guides you through selecting the right format, designing agendas, managing participation dynamics, making group decisions, and handling difficult situations to achieve session objectives.
+
+## When to Use
+
+Use this skill when:
+
+- **Planning sessions**: Design meeting agenda, choose workshop format, estimate timing
+- **Running meetings**: Daily standup, 1:1s, team sync, all-hands, board meeting
+- **Facilitating workshops**: Brainstorm, design sprint, strategy offsite, training session
+- **Team decisions**: Need structured decision-making (voting, consensus, delegation)
+- **Retrospectives**: Sprint retro, project postmortem, quarterly review
+- **Stakeholder engagement**: Kickoff, requirements gathering, alignment session
+- **Conflict resolution**: Tensions between team members, opposing viewpoints, stuck decisions
+- **Participation issues**: Some dominate conversation, others silent, sidebar discussions, low energy
+- **Remote facilitation**: Virtual meetings, hybrid sessions, asynchronous collaboration
+
+Trigger phrases: "facilitation", "workshop design", "meeting patterns", "how to run", "session planning", "effective meetings", "group discussion", "team collaboration"
+
+## What Is It?
+
+**Facilitation Patterns** are proven formats and techniques for structuring group interactions to achieve specific outcomes (decisions, ideas, alignment, learning, etc.).
+
+**Core components**:
+- **Format selection**: Which pattern fits your goal? (divergent brainstorm, convergent decision, alignment, learning)
+- **Agenda design**: Time-boxed activities in logical flow (diverge → converge, build → test)
+- **Participation techniques**: Ensure everyone contributes (round robin, silent writing, breakouts)
+- **Decision methods**: How to choose (consensus, consent, vote, delegation, advisory)
+- **Energy management**: Pacing, breaks, energizers, transitions
+- **Difficult dynamics**: Handle dominators, silent participants, conflict, tangents, groupthink
+
+**Quick example:**
+
+**Scenario**: Product team needs to prioritize features for Q2 (8 people, 90 minutes).
+
+**Pattern selected**: Effort-Impact Workshop (diverge → assess → converge)
+
+**Agenda**:
+1. **Frame** (10 min): Present context, Q2 goals, constraints
+2. **Diverge** (20 min): Silent brainstorm on sticky notes (what features could we build?)
+3. **Cluster** (15 min): Group similar ideas, clarify duplicates
+4. **Assess** (25 min): Plot features on effort-impact 2×2 matrix (in pairs, then discuss)
+5. **Converge** (15 min): Dot voting on "quick wins" (high impact, low effort)
+6. **Decide** (10 min): Top 5 features by votes → facilitator makes final call with input
+7. **Close** (5 min): Summarize decisions, next steps, feedback on session
+
+**Outcome**: Prioritized list of 5 features, buy-in from team (they contributed), completed in 90 min.
+
+**Core benefits**:
+- **Structured productivity**: Clear process prevents aimless discussion
+- **Inclusive participation**: Techniques ensure quiet voices heard, dominators managed
+- **Better decisions**: Multiple perspectives, bias mitigation (group vs individual), explicit criteria
+- **Time efficiency**: Time-boxing prevents overruns, focused activities
+- **Psychological safety**: Ground rules, equal participation, separated idea generation from evaluation
+
+## Workflow
+
+Copy this checklist and track your progress:
+
+```
+Facilitation Planning Progress:
+- [ ] Step 1: Define session objectives
+- [ ] Step 2: Select facilitation pattern
+- [ ] Step 3: Design agenda
+- [ ] Step 4: Prepare materials and logistics
+- [ ] Step 5: Facilitate the session
+- [ ] Step 6: Close and follow up
+```
+
+**Step 1: Define session objectives**
+
+What outcome do you need? (Decision, ideas, alignment, learning, relationship-building). Who attends? How much time? See [resources/template.md](resources/template.md#session-design-template).
+
+**Step 2: Select facilitation pattern**
+
+Based on objective and group size, choose pattern (Brainstorm, Decision Workshop, Alignment Session, Retro, Design Sprint). See [Common Patterns](#common-patterns) and [resources/methodology.md](resources/methodology.md#1-pattern-selection-guide).
+
+**Step 3: Design agenda**
+
+Create time-boxed agenda with activities, transitions, breaks. Follow diverge-converge flow. See [resources/template.md](resources/template.md#agenda-design-template) and [resources/methodology.md](resources/methodology.md#2-agenda-design-principles).
+
+**Step 4: Prepare materials and logistics**
+
+Set up space (physical or virtual), prepare slides/boards, send pre-work if needed, test tech. See [resources/template.md](resources/template.md#logistics-checklist).
+
+**Step 5: Facilitate the session**
+
+Run agenda, manage time, ensure participation, handle dynamics, track outputs. See [resources/methodology.md](resources/methodology.md#3-facilitation-techniques) and [resources/methodology.md](resources/methodology.md#4-handling-difficult-dynamics).
+
+**Step 6: Close and follow up**
+
+Summarize outcomes, clarify next steps and owners, gather feedback, share notes. See [resources/template.md](resources/template.md#closing-and-followup-template).
+
+Validate using [resources/evaluators/rubric_facilitation_patterns.json](resources/evaluators/rubric_facilitation_patterns.json). **Minimum standard**: Average score ≥ 3.5.
+
+## Common Patterns
+
+**Pattern 1: Divergent Brainstorm (Generate Ideas)**
+- **Goal**: Maximum idea generation, creative exploration
+- **Format**: Silent individual brainstorm → share → cluster → refine
+- **Techniques**: Crazy 8s, SCAMPER, "Yes, and...", defer judgment
+- **Time**: 30-60 min for 5-10 people
+- **Output**: 30-100 ideas, clustered by theme
+- **When**: Need creative options, early in project, no single right answer
+
+**Pattern 2: Convergent Decision Workshop (Choose Direction)**
+- **Goal**: Narrow options, make decision with group input
+- **Format**: Present options → assess criteria → vote/rank → decide
+- **Techniques**: 2×2 matrix (effort-impact), dot voting, affinity grouping, forced ranking
+- **Time**: 60-90 min for decision, 2-3 hours for complex
+- **Output**: Prioritized list or single decision with rationale
+- **When**: Multiple options exist, need buy-in, criteria clear
+
+**Pattern 3: Alignment Session (Build Shared Understanding)**
+- **Goal**: Get everyone on same page (vision, strategy, plan)
+- **Format**: Present → Q&A → small group discussion → report back → synthesize
+- **Techniques**: Fishbowl, gallery walk, 1-2-4-All, consensus check
+- **Time**: 90-120 min for alignment, half-day for strategy
+- **Output**: Shared mental model, documented assumptions, commitments
+- **When**: Starting project, misalignment detected, new team formation
+
+**Pattern 4: Retrospective (Reflect and Improve)**
+- **Goal**: Learn from experience, identify improvements
+- **Format**: Set context → gather data → generate insights → decide actions → close
+- **Techniques**: Start-Stop-Continue, Mad-Sad-Glad, Timeline, Sailboat, 4Ls (Liked, Learned, Lacked, Longed for)
+- **Time**: 45-90 min for sprint retro, 2-3 hours for project postmortem
+- **Output**: 2-5 actionable improvements with owners
+- **When**: End of sprint/project, recurring team practice, after incident
+
+**Pattern 5: Design Sprint (Prototype and Test)**
+- **Goal**: Rapidly prototype and validate concept
+- **Format**: 5 days: Understand → Diverge → Decide → Prototype → Test
+- **Techniques**: Sketching, storyboarding, Crazy 8s, Heat Map voting, user testing
+- **Time**: 5 full days (can compress to 2-3 days)
+- **Output**: Validated prototype, user feedback, go/no-go decision
+- **When**: Big design decision, high uncertainty, time to test before committing
+
+**Pattern 6: Asynchronous Collaboration (Remote/Distributed)**
+- **Goal**: Collaborate across time zones, allow reflection time
+- **Format**: Post prompt → async responses (24-48h) → sync synthesis session → document
+- **Techniques**: Shared docs, threaded discussions, Loom videos, async voting (Polly, Simple Poll)
+- **Time**: 2-5 days total (30-60 min sync session)
+- **Output**: Documented decisions, rationale, action items
+- **When**: Global team, deep thinking needed, no urgency for immediate decision
+
+## Guardrails
+
+**Critical requirements:**
+
+1. **Objectives before format**: Start with "what outcome do we need?" not "let's do a brainstorm". Format serves objective. If objective unclear, session will drift.
+
+2. **Time-box ruthlessly**: Parkinson's Law (work expands to fill time). Set strict timers, end activities even if incomplete. 25 min generates better focus than open-ended "until we're done."
+
+3. **Separate divergence from convergence**: Don't critique ideas during brainstorm (kills creativity). Defer judgment. Generate first, evaluate second. Premature convergence yields safe, obvious ideas.
+
+4. **Ensure psychological safety**: Ground rules (no interrupting, critique ideas not people, Vegas rule if needed). Address power dynamics (boss speaks last, use anonymous input). Without safety, you get groupthink or silence.
+
+5. **Manage participation actively**: Silent people have ideas (use individual writing, round robin, small groups). Verbose people dominate (time limits, "let's hear from others", parking lot for tangents). Don't let dysfunction fester.
+
+6. **Decide how decisions are made**: Consensus (everyone agrees), consent (no objections), majority vote, delegation (input → decision-maker). Announce method upfront. Lack of clarity → "I thought we decided, but nothing happened."
+
+7. **Track outputs visibly**: Shared board, live doc, sticky notes. Everyone sees same thing (reduces misunderstanding). Assign scribe if needed. Invisible outputs are easily lost.
+
+8. **Close with clarity**: What was decided? Who does what by when? What's still open? How will we communicate? 5 min close prevents week of confusion.
+
+**Common pitfalls:**
+
+- ❌ **No agenda**: Meetings drift, go long, participants unclear on purpose. Always have agenda (even 3 bullets).
+- ❌ **Wrong people**: Decision-makers absent, too many observers, missing key stakeholders. Right people > right process.
+- ❌ **Too much content**: 10 topics in 60 min = shallow on all. Better: 2-3 topics, go deep, make progress.
+- ❌ **Facilitator dominates**: Facilitator should guide process, not content. Reduce own talking, ask questions, stay neutral.
+- ❌ **No breaks**: 2+ hours without break → diminishing returns. Break every 60-90 min (5-10 min).
+- ❌ **Ignoring energy**: Pushing through low energy → poor output. Use energizers, adjust pace, or stop early.
+
+## Quick Reference
+
+**Key resources:**
+- **[resources/template.md](resources/template.md)**: Session design template, agenda builder, logistics checklist, closing template
+- **[resources/methodology.md](resources/methodology.md)**: Pattern selection guide, agenda design principles, facilitation techniques, handling difficult dynamics, decision-making methods
+- **[resources/evaluators/rubric_facilitation_patterns.json](resources/evaluators/rubric_facilitation_patterns.json)**: Session quality criteria (objectives clarity, participation balance, decision clarity, time management)
+
+**Decision-making methods**:
+- **Consensus**: Everyone must agree (slow, high buy-in, use for high-stakes or high-impact decisions)
+- **Consent**: No one objects / "safe to try" (faster than consensus, Sociocracy)
+- **Majority vote**: >50% wins (quick, can leave minority feeling unheard)
+- **Advisory**: Input from group, decision by one person (fast, accountable, use when decision-maker clear)
+- **Delegation**: Empower subset to decide with constraints (scales well, trust required)
+
+**Participation techniques**:
+- **Round robin**: Each person speaks in turn (ensures equal airtime)
+- **1-2-4-All**: Think alone → pairs → fours → whole group (builds ideas, safe for introverts)
+- **Silent writing**: Sticky notes or shared doc, no talking (prevents groupthink, good for brainstorms)
+- **Breakout rooms**: Small groups (3-5 people) discuss, report back (scalable, increases participation)
+- **Dot voting**: Each person gets N dots to vote on ideas (quick prioritization, visual)
+- **Fist to Five**: Show fingers 0-5 to gauge agreement (quick temperature check)
+
+**Energizers** (5-10 min):
+- **Standup stretch**: Literally stand and stretch (blood flow)
+- **Quick icebreaker**: "One word to describe how you're feeling", "What's on your desk right now?"
+- **Music break**: Play upbeat song, encouraged to dance/move
+- **Pair share**: 2 min with partner on non-work topic
+- **Voting game**: Thumbs up/down rapid-fire questions ("Coffee or tea?")
+
+**Timing guidelines**:
+- **Daily standup**: 15 min (5-10 people, 1 min each)
+- **1:1**: 30-60 min (half listening, half topics)
+- **Team sync**: 60 min (updates, 1-2 discussion topics)
+- **Brainstorm**: 30-60 min (diverge, cluster, dot vote)
+- **Decision workshop**: 90-120 min (options, criteria, discussion, vote)
+- **Retrospective**: 60-90 min (sprint), 2-3 hours (project)
+- **Alignment session**: 2-4 hours (include breaks)
+- **Design sprint**: 5 full days (or compressed to 2-3 days)
+
+**Red flags** (adjust or stop session):
+- >50% on laptops/phones (not engaged) → take break, energizer, or change format
+- Same 2-3 people talking entire time → round robin, small groups
+- Sidebar conversations → address directly ("Let's have one conversation"), or acknowledge and parking lot
+- Confusion about purpose → stop, re-clarify objective, adjust agenda
+- Running 30+ min over → apologize, reschedule rest, or ruthlessly cut content
+
+**Inputs required:**
+- **Objective**: What outcome do you need? (Decision, ideas, alignment, learning)
+- **Participants**: Who? How many? Roles? Power dynamics?
+- **Time**: How long? (Realistic estimate, not wishful thinking)
+- **Constraints**: Location (remote/in-person), budget, cultural norms
+
+**Outputs produced:**
+- `facilitation-plan.md`: Session design (objective, agenda, materials, decision method, outputs)
+- `session-notes.md`: What was discussed, decisions made, action items with owners

skills/facilitation-patterns/resources/evaluators/rubric_facilitation_patterns.json

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+{
+  "criteria": [
+    {
+      "name": "Objective Clarity",
+      "1": "No clear objective stated, purpose vague ('let's discuss X'), participants unclear why they're there or what success looks like",
+      "3": "Objective stated but not specific ('make a decision on priorities'), success criteria mentioned but not measurable",
+      "5": "Crystal clear objective ('By end of session, we will have decided top 5 Q2 features with rationale'), specific success criteria, communicated upfront to all participants"
+    },
+    {
+      "name": "Pattern Appropriateness",
+      "1": "Wrong pattern for objective (brainstorm format for decision-making need, or decision workshop for alignment need), mismatch with group size or time",
+      "3": "Pattern generally fits objective, some mismatch (e.g., too much time for simple decision, or not enough for complex alignment)",
+      "5": "Pattern perfectly matched to objective, group size, and time available. Diverge-converge flow appropriate. Format serves outcome."
+    },
+    {
+      "name": "Agenda Design Quality",
+      "1": "No written agenda, or agenda is just topic list with no time boxes or activities specified",
+      "3": "Agenda with time boxes and activities, some flow issues (e.g., no breaks for 2+ hours, or premature convergence), buffer time missing",
+      "5": "Well-designed agenda: time-boxed activities in logical flow (diverge → converge), breaks every 60-90min, buffer time (10-15%), energy arc considered, decision method specified upfront"
+    },
+    {
+      "name": "Participation Balance",
+      "1": "2-3 people dominate entire session, many participants silent throughout, no techniques used to ensure equal participation",
+      "3": "Some participation techniques used (round robin mentioned, or breakouts), but still imbalance (some very vocal, some silent)",
+      "5": "Balanced participation achieved through deliberate techniques (silent writing, 1-2-4-All, round robin, breakouts), quiet voices explicitly invited, dominators managed respectfully, participation tracked and adjusted"
+    },
+    {
+      "name": "Time Management",
+      "1": "No time tracking, activities run wildly over (30min becomes 60min), session ends late with agenda incomplete, no buffer",
+      "3": "Time boxes set but not enforced strictly, some activities run over, session ends 10-15min late, facilitator aware but doesn't cut",
+      "5": "Ruthless time management: visible timer, warnings given ('5 min left'), activities cut if over time, buffer used for overruns, session ends on time with all key outcomes achieved"
+    },
+    {
+      "name": "Decision Clarity",
+      "1": "No clear decision made or decision method not specified, participants leave confused about what was decided, no documentation",
+      "3": "Decision made but rationale unclear, or decision method not communicated upfront, some confusion about finality ('Did we decide or just discuss?')",
+      "5": "Decision method specified upfront (consensus, vote, advisory), decision made and documented with clear rationale, participants aligned on outcome, no ambiguity about what was decided or who's accountable"
+    },
+    {
+      "name": "Difficult Dynamics Handling",
+      "1": "Difficult dynamics ignored (dominators dominate, conflict avoided, tangents unchecked, low energy pushed through)",
+      "3": "Some dynamics addressed (parking lot used for tangents, one intervention for dominators), but not consistently managed",
+      "5": "Proactive and skilled handling: dominators respectfully limited (round robin, time limits), silent participants invited gently, conflict surfaced and managed constructively, tangents parking-lotted, energy monitored and breaks/energizers used as needed"
+    },
+    {
+      "name": "Output Capture",
+      "1": "No outputs documented, or only in facilitator's head, participants leave without clear record of decisions/action items",
+      "3": "Basic notes taken (scribe or facilitator), decisions and action items captured but unstructured or unclear ownership",
+      "5": "Structured output capture: visible board during session (everyone sees same thing), clear documentation of decisions (what, why, who, when), action items with owners and due dates, parking lot tracked, notes shared within 24 hours"
+    },
+    {
+      "name": "Psychological Safety",
+      "1": "Unsafe environment: ideas dismissed, people interrupted frequently, power dynamics unchecked (boss dominates), no ground rules",
+      "3": "Some safety established (ground rules mentioned, occasional intervention to protect space), but lapses occur (interruptions happen, hierarchy still visible)",
+      "5": "Strong psychological safety: ground rules set and enforced (no interruptions, challenge ideas not people), power dynamics actively managed (boss speaks last, anonymous input available), all contributions valued, critique deferred during divergence, facilitator protects dissent"
+    },
+    {
+      "name": "Follow-up and Closure",
+      "1": "Session ends abruptly ('we're out of time, see you next week'), no summary, no next steps, no action items, participants confused about follow-up",
+      "3": "Brief closing (summary of key points, some action items mentioned), but next steps unclear or owners not assigned",
+      "5": "Strong closure: outcomes summarized clearly, action items documented with owners and due dates, parking lot items addressed (who owns, when addressed), next session scheduled if needed, appreciation expressed, feedback gathered (optional), notes sent within 24 hours"
+    }
+  ],
+  "guidance_by_type": {
+    "Divergent Brainstorm": {
+      "target_score": 3.8,
+      "key_requirements": [
+        "Pattern Appropriateness (≥4): Diverge-converge flow (generate first, evaluate second), defer judgment during brainstorm",
+        "Participation Balance (≥5): Silent writing or individual brainstorm first (prevents groupthink), round robin or parallel contribution",
+        "Psychological Safety (≥5): 'No bad ideas' during divergence, critique deferred, wild ideas encouraged",
+        "Output Capture (≥4): All ideas captured on visible board (sticky notes, Mural), clustered by themes, top ideas prioritized (dot voting)"
+      ],
+      "common_pitfalls": [
+        "Critiquing ideas during generation (kills creativity, premature convergence)",
+        "Verbal brainstorm only (loud voices dominate, groupthink, fewer ideas than silent writing)",
+        "No synthesis step (100 ideas but no clustering or prioritization → participants overwhelmed)"
+      ]
+    },
+    "Convergent Decision Workshop": {
+      "target_score": 4.0,
+      "key_requirements": [
+        "Objective Clarity (≥5): Specific decision to be made stated upfront, criteria for decision clear",
+        "Decision Clarity (≥5): Decision method announced before discussion (consensus, vote, advisory), decision documented with rationale",
+        "Participation Balance (≥4): Breakouts or structured discussion (not just open debate), all voices on decision",
+        "Difficult Dynamics (≥4): Conflict managed (surface different views, clarify trade-offs, avoid premature closure)"
+      ],
+      "common_pitfalls": [
+        "No decision method specified (people think consensus but facilitator decides → frustration)",
+        "Premature decision (first option sounds good, don't explore alternatives → regret later)",
+        "Fake consensus (people nod but privately disagree → decision doesn't stick)"
+      ]
+    },
+    "Alignment Session": {
+      "target_score": 3.9,
+      "key_requirements": [
+        "Objective Clarity (≥5): Explicit alignment goal (on vision, strategy, plan), what 'aligned' looks like defined",
+        "Participation Balance (≥5): Small groups to surface concerns, report back, everyone's understanding checked (not just presentation)",
+        "Psychological Safety (≥5): Safe to voice misalignment, concerns, or confusion. No pressure to fake agreement.",
+        "Output Capture (≥4): Documented shared understanding, assumptions, commitments, misalignments to address"
+      ],
+      "common_pitfalls": [
+        "One-way presentation (speaker presents, no discussion → people nod but don't truly align)",
+        "Fake alignment (people say 'sounds good' to end meeting, but privately don't buy in)",
+        "No check for understanding (assume alignment because no one objected → misunderstandings surface later)"
+      ]
+    },
+    "Retrospective": {
+      "target_score": 4.1,
+      "key_requirements": [
+        "Pattern Appropriateness (≥4): Retro format (set stage → gather data → insights → actions → close), not just 'what went wrong' complaint session",
+        "Psychological Safety (≥5): Blameless (focus on systems, not people), Vegas rule if sensitive, safe to critique process",
+        "Decision Clarity (≥5): 2-3 actionable improvements with owners and dates (not 10 vague 'let's do better'), commitments clear",
+        "Follow-up (≥5): Action items tracked in sprint/project backlog, reviewed in next retro (accountability loop)"
+      ],
+      "common_pitfalls": [
+        "Blame culture (naming people, 'X should have...') → retro becomes unsafe, people stop sharing",
+        "No actions (discussion but no commitments → same issues repeat next sprint)",
+        "Too many actions (10 improvements → none get done, better to focus on 2-3 high-impact)"
+      ]
+    },
+    "Design Sprint": {
+      "target_score": 4.3,
+      "key_requirements": [
+        "Pattern Appropriateness (≥5): 5-day flow (Understand → Diverge → Decide → Prototype → Test), strict time-boxing, right people (decision-maker present)",
+        "Agenda Design (≥5): Detailed hour-by-hour agenda for all 5 days, breaks scheduled, energizers planned for low-energy moments",
+        "Time Management (≥5): Ruthless time-boxing (activities end on time even if incomplete), decision-maker breaks ties quickly (no long debates)",
+        "Output Capture (≥5): Prototype built by Day 4, user testing completed Day 5, insights documented, go/no-go decision made"
+      ],
+      "common_pitfalls": [
+        "Decision-maker not present (can't make calls, sprint stalls on decisions)",
+        "Extending activities (violates sprint discipline, burns time needed for prototype and testing)",
+        "No real users for testing (testing with team → confirmation bias, not real validation)"
+      ]
+    }
+  },
+  "guidance_by_complexity": {
+    "Simple": {
+      "target_score": 3.5,
+      "description": "Short session (30-60 min), small group (3-7 people), simple objective (standup, quick decision, tactical sync)",
+      "key_requirements": [
+        "Objective Clarity (≥4): Clear, specific outcome for short session",
+        "Pattern Appropriateness (≥3): Simple format (round robin, quick discussion, vote if needed)",
+        "Time Management (≥4): Strict time-box (don't let 30min become 60min)",
+        "Output Capture (≥3): Key decisions and action items documented (even if just bullet points in chat)"
+      ],
+      "time_estimate": "10-30 min prep, 30-60 min session, 10 min notes",
+      "examples": [
+        "Daily standup (15 min, round robin updates)",
+        "Quick decision (30 min, present options, vote, decide)",
+        "Team sync (60 min, updates + 1-2 discussion topics)"
+      ]
+    },
+    "Standard": {
+      "target_score": 4.0,
+      "description": "Medium session (1-2 hours), standard group (6-12 people), clear objective (brainstorm, decision workshop, retrospective)",
+      "key_requirements": [
+        "Objective Clarity (≥5): Specific outcome, success criteria, communicated upfront",
+        "Pattern Appropriateness (≥4): Pattern matches objective (diverge-converge for brainstorm, decision format for choices)",
+        "Agenda Design (≥4): Time-boxed activities, breaks if 90+ min, decision method specified",
+        "Participation Balance (≥4): Techniques to ensure equal participation (silent writing, breakouts, round robin)",
+        "Time Management (≥4): Activities time-boxed, session ends on time",
+        "Decision Clarity (≥5): Decisions documented, action items with owners",
+        "Follow-up (≥4): Notes shared within 24 hours"
+      ],
+      "time_estimate": "1-2 hours prep (agenda, materials), 1-2 hour session, 30 min notes/follow-up",
+      "examples": [
+        "Brainstorm session (60 min, generate 30+ ideas, prioritize top 10)",
+        "Decision workshop (90 min, assess options, vote, decide)",
+        "Sprint retrospective (60-90 min, gather data, insights, 2-3 improvements)"
+      ]
+    },
+    "Complex": {
+      "target_score": 4.3,
+      "description": "Long session (half-day to multi-day), large or diverse group (10-30 people), complex objective (alignment, strategy, design sprint)",
+      "key_requirements": [
+        "Objective Clarity (≥5): Multi-layered objective broken into sub-goals, success criteria for each phase",
+        "Pattern Appropriateness (≥5): Sophisticated pattern (design sprint 5-day flow, alignment session with breakouts and synthesis), adapted to context",
+        "Agenda Design (≥5): Detailed hour-by-hour agenda, energy arc designed (hard thinking mid-session, breaks every 60-90min, energizers planned), contingency time",
+        "Participation Balance (≥5): Multiple techniques (breakouts, silent writing, fishbowl, 1-2-4-All), active management of dynamics",
+        "Time Management (≥5): Ruthless time-boxing across days, facilitator cuts activities to preserve critical outcomes",
+        "Difficult Dynamics (≥5): Proactive handling (power dynamics managed, conflict addressed, energy monitored constantly)",
+        "Psychological Safety (≥5): Ground rules enforced, dissent protected, anonymous channels available",
+        "Output Capture (≥5): Structured documentation (decisions, rationale, assumptions, commitments, parking lot), multiple formats (visual board + written notes), shared same day",
+        "Follow-up (≥5): Clear next steps, accountability structure, follow-up sessions scheduled"
+      ],
+      "time_estimate": "4-8 hours prep (detailed agenda, materials, logistics, stakeholder alignment), half-day to 5 days facilitation, 2-4 hours synthesis and notes",
+      "examples": [
+        "Strategy offsite (2 days, 15-20 people, align on vision and 12-month plan)",
+        "Design sprint (5 days, 5-7 people, prototype and test solution to high-uncertainty problem)",
+        "Multi-stakeholder alignment (half-day, 20-30 people, build shared understanding of roadmap)"
+      ]
+    }
+  },
+  "common_failure_modes": [
+    {
+      "failure": "No agenda or vague objective",
+      "symptom": "Session starts with 'Let's discuss X', participants unclear on purpose, meeting drifts across topics, ends without clear outcome",
+      "detection": "Ask 'What's the specific outcome we need by end of session?' If no clear answer → no objective. If no written agenda → drift likely.",
+      "fix": "Before session: Write specific objective ('By end, we will have [outcome]'), design time-boxed agenda with activities, share with participants. Start session by stating objective and agenda."
+    },
+    {
+      "failure": "Wrong pattern for objective",
+      "symptom": "Brainstorm format used for decision-making (generates ideas but no decision), or decision format for alignment need (forces choice before shared understanding)",
+      "detection": "Mismatch between stated objective and pattern used. Objective says 'align on vision' but session is 1-hour presentation → wrong pattern.",
+      "fix": "Match pattern to objective: Divergent (generate ideas), Convergent (decide), Alignment (shared understanding), Retro (reflect & improve). See Pattern Selection Guide."
+    },
+    {
+      "failure": "Premature convergence (critique during brainstorm)",
+      "symptom": "During idea generation, people say 'That won't work because...' or 'We tried that before', kills creativity, yields safe/obvious ideas",
+      "detection": "If evaluation happens during divergence (simultaneous generation + critique) → premature convergence. Fewer ideas generated than potential.",
+      "fix": "Separate divergence and convergence: 'First, we generate all ideas with no judgment (10 min). Then, we evaluate (20 min).' Use silent writing (harder to critique). Enforce 'defer judgment' ground rule."
+    },
+    {
+      "failure": "Participation imbalance (dominators + silent participants)",
+      "symptom": "Same 2-3 people talk entire session, others silent or only contribute when directly asked, facilitator doesn't intervene",
+      "detection": "Track speaking time. If 3 people speak 80% of the time and 7 people speak 20% → imbalance. Exit surveys show 'didn't feel heard.'",
+      "fix": "Use participation techniques: Silent writing (everyone contributes in parallel), round robin (everyone speaks), breakouts (small groups safer for quiet folks), direct invites ('We haven't heard from [name]'). Set ground rule: 'Step up, step back.'"
+    },
+    {
+      "failure": "No time management (activities run wildly over)",
+      "symptom": "30-min activity becomes 60 min, facilitator lets discussion continue ('This is valuable, let's keep going'), session runs 30+ min late, agenda incomplete",
+      "detection": "Lack of visible timer, no time warnings given, facilitator doesn't cut activities even when over time, participants complain session runs long.",
+      "fix": "Set visible timer for all activities, give warnings ('5 min left'), ruthlessly cut when time expires (even if incomplete), add 10-15% buffer in agenda, prioritize critical outcomes (cut nice-to-haves if needed)."
+    },
+    {
+      "failure": "Decision ambiguity (unclear what was decided or how)",
+      "symptom": "Session ends, participants leave confused ('Did we decide or just discuss?', 'Who's making final call?'), no documentation, week later people have different understanding",
+      "detection": "Ask participants 'What was decided?' If answers vary → ambiguity. If no written record → will be forgotten or disputed.",
+      "fix": "Announce decision method upfront ('We'll vote after discussion and I'll make final call'). At decision point, state clearly: 'Here's what we decided: [X]. Rationale: [Y]. Next steps: [Z].' Document and share immediately."
+    },
+    {
+      "failure": "Ignoring difficult dynamics",
+      "symptom": "Dominators dominate unchecked, conflict avoided (tension visible but not addressed), tangents pursued for 20 min, low energy ignored (people glazed over but session continues)",
+      "detection": "Facilitator doesn't intervene when dynamics dysfunctional. Body language shows disengagement. Post-session feedback mentions dynamics issues.",
+      "fix": "Proactively manage dynamics: Intervene when one person dominates (round robin, invite others), surface conflict ('I hear two views, let's understand both'), parking lot tangents, take breaks when energy drops, use energizers."
+    },
+    {
+      "failure": "No output capture (decisions and action items not documented)",
+      "symptom": "Session happens, valuable discussion, but no notes taken or only in facilitator's head, participants leave without clear record, week later people ask 'What did we decide?'",
+      "detection": "No visible board during session, no scribe assigned, no shared doc with outputs, notes not sent after session.",
+      "fix": "Assign scribe (not facilitator), use visible board (everyone sees same thing during session), structure outputs (decisions, action items with owners and dates, parking lot), share notes within 24 hours."
+    },
+    {
+      "failure": "Psychological safety lacking",
+      "symptom": "Ideas dismissed quickly ('That's dumb'), people interrupted frequently, boss dominates (others defer), no one voices dissent (everyone nods but privately disagrees)",
+      "detection": "Low participation, fake consensus, exit feedback says 'didn't feel safe to share', hierarchy clearly visible.",
+      "fix": "Set ground rules (no interruptions, challenge ideas not people, Vegas rule), manage power dynamics (boss speaks last, anonymous input available), protect dissent (Thank dissenter: 'Appreciate different view'), defer critique during divergence."
+    },
+    {
+      "failure": "Poor closure (session ends abruptly with no summary or next steps)",
+      "symptom": "Facilitator says 'We're out of time, thanks everyone' at end, no summary of outcomes, no action items, no next steps, participants leave confused",
+      "detection": "Last 5-10 min not reserved for closing, no structured close in agenda, participants ask 'What are next steps?' and no clear answer.",
+      "fix": "Reserve 5-10 min for closing (build into agenda), summarize outcomes ('Here's what we decided/learned/committed to'), clarify action items (who, what, when), address parking lot, express appreciation, send notes within 24 hours."
+    }
+  ]
+}

skills/facilitation-patterns/resources/methodology.md

@@ -0,0 +1,438 @@
+# Facilitation Patterns Methodology
+
+Advanced techniques for pattern selection, agenda design, facilitation, handling dynamics, decision-making, and remote collaboration.
+
+## Workflow
+
+```
+Facilitation Planning Progress:
+- [ ] Step 1: Define session objectives
+- [ ] Step 2: Select facilitation pattern
+- [ ] Step 3: Design agenda
+- [ ] Step 4: Prepare materials and logistics
+- [ ] Step 5: Facilitate the session
+- [ ] Step 6: Close and follow up
+```
+
+**Step 1-3**: Define objectives, select pattern, design agenda → See [1. Pattern Selection Guide](#1-pattern-selection-guide) and [2. Agenda Design Principles](#2-agenda-design-principles)
+
+**Step 4**: Prepare logistics → See [resources/template.md](template.md#logistics-checklist)
+
+**Step 5**: Facilitate → See [3. Facilitation Techniques](#3-facilitation-techniques) and [4. Handling Difficult Dynamics](#4-handling-difficult-dynamics)
+
+**Step 6**: Close and follow up → See [5. Decision-Making Methods](#5-decision-making-methods) for ensuring clarity
+
+---
+
+## 1. Pattern Selection Guide
+
+### Decision Tree
+
+**Question 1: What's the primary objective?**
+
+**A. Generate ideas / explore options (Divergent)**
+- Group size: <15 people → **Brainstorm pattern**
+- Group size: >15 people → Breakouts first, then report back
+
+**B. Make a decision / choose direction (Convergent)**
+- Clear criteria exist → **Decision Workshop pattern**
+- Criteria need to be defined → Alignment session first, then decision
+
+**C. Build shared understanding / align (Convergence on mental model)**
+- Strategy or vision alignment → **Alignment Session pattern**
+- Tactical alignment (who does what) → **Working Session pattern**
+
+**D. Reflect and improve (Retrospective)**
+- After sprint/project → **Retrospective pattern**
+- After incident → **Postmortem pattern** (blameless, focus on systems)
+
+**E. Prototype and validate (Design)**
+- High uncertainty, big decision → **Design Sprint pattern** (5 days)
+- Medium uncertainty, smaller scope → **Rapid prototyping workshop** (1 day)
+
+**Question 2: What's the group size?**
+
+- **3-5 people**: Simple discussion format, less structure needed
+- **6-10 people**: Ideal for most patterns, can have whole-group discussion
+- **11-20 people**: Need breakouts for discussion, report back to whole group
+- **20+**: Presentation + Q&A + breakouts, or multiple sessions
+
+**Question 3: How much time?**
+
+- **<30 min**: Standup, quick sync, tactical decision
+- **30-60 min**: Focused brainstorm or simple decision
+- **60-120 min**: Decision workshop, retrospective, working session
+- **Half day (3-4 hours)**: Alignment, planning, deep dive
+- **Full day+**: Design sprint, strategy offsite, training
+
+### Pattern Matching Table
+
+| Goal | Pattern | Time | Group Size | Output |
+|------|---------|------|-----------|--------|
+| Generate ideas | Brainstorm | 30-60 min | 5-10 | 30-100 ideas |
+| Prioritize options | Decision Workshop | 90-120 min | 5-10 | Ranked list or decision |
+| Align on vision | Alignment Session | 2-4 hours | 10-30 | Shared understanding |
+| Reflect on sprint | Retrospective | 60-90 min | 5-8 | 2-3 improvements |
+| Design solution | Design Sprint | 5 days | 5-7 | Tested prototype |
+| Tactical planning | Working Session | 90-120 min | 4-8 | Plan with owners |
+| Incident review | Postmortem | 2-3 hours | 5-12 | Root cause, actions |
+
+---
+
+## 2. Agenda Design Principles
+
+### The Diverge-Converge Diamond
+
+Most effective sessions follow this flow:
+
+```
+Start (Narrow) → Diverge (Expand) → Converge (Narrow) → Decide (Narrow)
+
+Example:
+1. Frame the problem (narrow focus)
+2. Individual brainstorm (diverge - many ideas)
+3. Cluster ideas, discuss themes (converge - patterns emerge)
+4. Dot vote on top ideas (decide - commit to 3-5)
+```
+
+**Why it works**: Diverge prevents premature convergence (jumping to first idea). Converge prevents paralysis (too many options). Structure creates productive tension.
+
+### Time-Boxing Principles
+
+**Parkinson's Law**: Work expands to fill available time. Tight time-boxes → focus.
+
+**Guidelines**:
+- **5-10 min**: Quick individual task (write ideas, read doc)
+- **15-20 min**: Small group discussion or activity
+- **25-30 min**: Deep discussion or complex activity (max before energy drops)
+- **45-60 min**: Absolute max without break (diminishing returns after)
+- **10-15% buffer**: Add slack for overruns (60 min session → schedule 70 min)
+
+**Time warnings**: Give "5 minutes left" and "2 minutes, wrap up" warnings. Keeps people aware.
+
+**Cutting activities**: If running over, don't extend (trains bad behavior). Either ruthlessly cut remaining topics or schedule follow-up.
+
+### Energy Arc
+
+**Energy curve**: High at start (fresh), dips mid-session (fatigue), can lift at end (urgency).
+
+**Design for energy**:
+- **Start with easy win**: Quick activity to build momentum (not heavy content immediately)
+- **Hard thinking mid-session**: Complex discussion or decision when energy still good (not at end)
+- **Vary modalities**: Alternate sitting/standing, individual/group, talking/silent, consuming/creating
+- **Breaks**: Every 60-90 min (5-10 min). Non-negotiable for 2+ hour sessions.
+- **Energizers**: Quick activities to lift energy (stretch, music, movement, game)
+- **End strong**: Clear summary, appreciation, next steps (not "we're out of time, bye")
+
+### Activity Sequencing
+
+**Good sequences**:
+1. **Individual → Pairs → Small Group → Whole Group** (1-2-4-All)
+   - Ensures everyone thinks first (not dominated by fast talkers)
+2. **Silent → Verbal** (write first, then discuss)
+   - Prevents groupthink, gives introverts processing time
+3. **Generate → Cluster → Prioritize** (brainstorm workflow)
+   - Diverge (ideas), converge (themes), decide (priority)
+4. **Presentation → Q&A → Discussion → Decision**
+   - Context first, clarify, explore, then commit
+
+**Bad sequences**:
+- Starting with whole-group discussion (dominators take over, no equal participation)
+- Critique during idea generation (kills creativity)
+- Decision before discussion (premature, low buy-in)
+
+---
+
+## 3. Facilitation Techniques
+
+### Ensuring Participation
+
+**Problem**: Some people dominate, others silent. Leads to groupthink or missing perspectives.
+
+**Techniques**:
+
+**Round Robin**: Each person speaks in turn (30 sec - 2 min each). Can't interrupt or pass.
+- **Use when**: Want to hear from everyone, equal airtime important
+- **Variation**: Popcorn (people nominate next speaker, ensures network spreads)
+
+**1-2-4-All**: Individual (1 min think alone) → Pairs (2 min discuss) → Fours (4 min synthesize) → All (report themes)
+- **Use when**: Complex question, want deep thinking before sharing
+- **Benefit**: Introverts process privately first, extroverts get multiple discussion rounds
+
+**Silent Writing / Brain-writing**: Everyone writes ideas on sticky notes or shared doc (5-10 min), no talking
+- **Use when**: Brainstorming, want to avoid groupthink
+- **Benefit**: Parallel idea generation (10 people generate 50 ideas in 5 min vs 30 min talking)
+
+**Breakout Rooms** (physical or virtual): Small groups (3-5 people) discuss, then report back
+- **Use when**: >10 people, need deeper discussion than whole-group allows
+- **Tip**: Give clear prompt and time limit (15-20 min). Visit rooms to check progress.
+
+**Anonymous Input**: Use tools (Slido, Mentimeter, shared doc) for questions or ideas without names
+- **Use when**: Sensitive topics, power dynamics (boss in room), psychological safety low
+
+**Equalize speaking time**: Set explicit time limits (2 min per person), use timer, enforce gently
+- **Tip**: "I'm going to ask everyone to keep responses to 2 minutes so we hear from all."
+
+### Managing Time
+
+**Visible timer**: Shared screen timer or physical clock. Everyone sees time remaining.
+
+**Time-keeper role**: Delegate to someone (not facilitator) to give warnings ("5 min left", "time")
+
+**Ruthless cutting**: If activity runs over, don't extend (trains people to respect time-box). Either cut remaining topics or defer to follow-up.
+
+**Buffer in agenda**: Add 10-15% slack. If 5 activities × 10 min each = 50 min, schedule 60 min.
+
+### Capturing Outputs
+
+**Visible board**: Everyone sees same thing (whiteboard, Mural, shared doc projected). Reduces misunderstanding.
+
+**Scribe role**: Delegate note-taking to someone (not facilitator). Facilitator focuses on process.
+
+**Structured capture**:
+- Decisions: What was decided, rationale, who, when
+- Action items: Specific, owner, due date
+- Parking lot: Topics for later (important but off-agenda)
+- Key insights: Themes, patterns, surprising learnings
+
+**Post-session**: Share notes within 24 hours. Faster = better (while fresh).
+
+---
+
+## 4. Handling Difficult Dynamics
+
+### Dominating Participants
+
+**Symptoms**: Same 2-3 people talking entire time, others silent, depth of contribution varies.
+
+**Interventions**:
+- **Round robin**: Force equal airtime
+- **Direct invite**: "We haven't heard from [name] yet. What's your take?"
+- **Interrupt gently**: "Thanks [name], let me pause you there and hear from others first."
+- **Set ground rules upfront**: "Step up, step back" (if you talk a lot, make space; if quiet, push to contribute)
+- **Private chat** (if recurring): "I appreciate your input. Can you help me by holding space for quieter folks?"
+
+### Silent Participants
+
+**Causes**: Introverted, processing time needed, intimidated, disagree but don't want conflict, multitasking.
+
+**Interventions**:
+- **Silent writing first**: Gives time to think before talking
+- **Pairs before whole group**: Safer to talk to one person first
+- **Direct invite (gently)**: "We haven't heard from you, [name]. What do you think?" (Don't force if they decline)
+- **Chat box / anonymous**: Can type thoughts if uncomfortable speaking
+- **Offline**: "I noticed you were quiet. Any thoughts you didn't get to share?"
+
+**Don't assume**: Silence doesn't always mean disengagement. Some process internally.
+
+### Conflict or Disagreement
+
+**Normal and healthy** (if managed well). Different perspectives → better decisions.
+
+**Interventions**:
+- **Surface it**: "I hear two different views. Let's understand each fully before deciding."
+- **Steelman each position**: Ask each person to restate other's view ("What's the strongest argument for their position?")
+- **Clarify trade-offs**: "What are we optimizing for? What do we gain/lose with each option?"
+- **Separate people from ideas**: "We're debating the idea, not attacking each other."
+- **Decision method clarity**: "Here's how we'll decide after hearing all views: [vote, consensus, advisory]."
+- **Escalate if needed**: "We're stuck. Let's take to [decision-maker] with both views and recommendation."
+
+**Avoid**: Rushing to resolution, dismissing minority view, facilitator taking side.
+
+### Tangents or Off-Topic
+
+**Symptoms**: Discussion drifts from agenda, pursuing interesting but irrelevant thread.
+
+**Interventions**:
+- **Parking lot**: "That's important, but off today's agenda. I'll capture it here and we'll address later."
+- **Refocus**: "Let's come back to the question: [restate agenda item]."
+- **Check with group**: "This is interesting but not on agenda. Do we want to spend time on this or stay focused?" (Usually folks choose focus)
+
+**Prevention**: Clear agenda upfront, ground rules about staying on-topic, strong facilitator.
+
+### Low Energy or Disengagement
+
+**Symptoms**: Laptops open, sidebar conversations, people leaving room, glazed looks.
+
+**Interventions**:
+- **Break**: "Let's take 5 min. I see energy dropping."
+- **Energizer**: Quick physical activity (stand, stretch, music, game)
+- **Change format**: Switch from presentation to discussion, or whole-group to breakouts
+- **Check in**: "I'm sensing low energy. What's going on? Do we need to adjust?"
+- **Stop early**: If session isn't working, better to cut short than push through. "This isn't landing. Let's regroup."
+
+**Prevention**: Vary activities (don't lecture for 90 min), breaks every 60-90 min, start strong.
+
+### Power Dynamics
+
+**Symptoms**: Boss in room → people defer, don't speak candidly. New person → intimidated. Hierarchy suppresses dissent.
+
+**Interventions**:
+- **Boss speaks last**: Explicitly ask senior person to hold input until others share
+- **Anonymous input**: Use tools so contributions not attributed
+- **Small groups**: Mix hierarchy levels, or group by level (peers discuss first)
+- **Ground rules**: "Challenge ideas, not people" + "No rank in this room for next 90 min"
+- **Private channels**: 1:1s for sensitive topics hierarchy prevents
+
+**Facilitator neutrality**: Don't align with boss or senior person. Protect space for dissent.
+
+---
+
+## 5. Decision-Making Methods
+
+### Consensus
+
+**Definition**: Everyone must agree (or at least accept) the decision.
+
+**Process**: Discuss until all objections resolved. Ask "Can you live with this?" (not "Do you love it?")
+
+**Pros**: High buy-in, all voices heard, surfaces concerns early
+
+**Cons**: Slow (can take hours or multiple sessions), one person can block, pressure to conform
+
+**Use when**: High-stakes, irreversible decisions. Team needs to deeply own outcome. Time available.
+
+**Red flags**: Fake consensus (people agree publicly but disagree privately). Dominators steamroll minority.
+
+### Consent (Sociocracy)
+
+**Definition**: No one has a "principled objection" (i.e., decision is "safe to try").
+
+**Process**: Propose decision. Ask "Any objections?" If objection, explore: Is it principled (violates values, causes harm) or preference (I'd rather do X)? Principled → revise proposal. Preference → document but proceed.
+
+**Pros**: Faster than consensus, surfaces critical objections, empowers minority voice
+
+**Cons**: Requires discipline (distinguishing principled vs preference), unfamiliar to many
+
+**Use when**: Need speed but also safety. Experimental decisions (can reverse if fails). Sociocratic orgs.
+
+### Majority Vote
+
+**Definition**: >50% wins (or 2/3, or other threshold).
+
+**Process**: Present options, clarify, vote (show of hands, poll, secret ballot). Majority wins.
+
+**Pros**: Fast, clear outcome, democratic
+
+**Cons**: Minority may feel unheard, low buy-in from losers, binary (can't combine ideas)
+
+**Use when**: Simple choices, time pressure, democratic process expected, low controversy
+
+**Variations**:
+- **Ranked choice**: Vote for 1st, 2nd, 3rd choice. Eliminates least popular iteratively.
+- **Dot voting**: Each person gets N dots to allocate across options. Visual, quick prioritization.
+
+### Advisory (Input-Driven)
+
+**Definition**: One person makes decision after gathering input from group.
+
+**Process**: Present options, gather feedback/concerns, decision-maker weighs input and decides. Announces decision with rationale.
+
+**Pros**: Fast, accountable (one person owns), scalable (doesn't require everyone to agree)
+
+**Cons**: Can feel top-down if not communicated well, decision-maker may ignore input
+
+**Use when**: Decision-maker clear, they have context others lack, time pressure, precedent for this authority
+
+**Keys**: Announce upfront ("I'll make call with your input"), genuinely consider input, explain rationale.
+
+### Delegation
+
+**Definition**: Empower a subset (person or small group) to decide within constraints.
+
+**Process**: Define decision space ("You can decide X, Y, Z within budget $N and timeframe T"). Delegate. Group decides autonomously. Reports back.
+
+**Pros**: Scales well, develops autonomy, fast (no coordination overhead)
+
+**Cons**: Requires trust, may make suboptimal choice (lack full context), others may feel excluded
+
+**Use when**: Decision is specialized (subset has expertise), trust high, decision reversible, empowerment valued
+
+### Comparison Table
+
+| Method | Speed | Buy-in | Use When |
+|--------|-------|--------|----------|
+| **Consensus** | Slow | Very High | High-stakes, irreversible, time available |
+| **Consent** | Medium | High | Experimental, need safety + speed |
+| **Majority Vote** | Fast | Medium | Simple choice, democratic process |
+| **Advisory** | Fast | Medium | Clear decision-maker, time pressure |
+| **Delegation** | Very Fast | Varies | Specialized, trust high, empowerment |
+
+---
+
+## 6. Remote Facilitation Best Practices
+
+### Synchronous (Live Video)
+
+**Challenges**: Harder to read body language, tech issues, "Zoom fatigue", harder to manage participation.
+
+**Best practices**:
+- **Cameras on** (if possible, respect privacy): Increases engagement, body language visible
+- **Mute when not speaking**: Reduces background noise
+- **Use chat**: Parallel channel for questions, links, emoji reactions, jokes (humanizes)
+- **Breakout rooms**: Small groups for discussion (easier than 15 people on main call)
+- **Visual board**: Mural, Miro, Google Jamboard. Everyone contributes simultaneously.
+- **Shorter sessions**: 90 min max without break (Zoom fatigue real). Prefer 60 min.
+- **More breaks**: Every 45-60 min (5 min break). People need screen rest.
+- **Explicit turn-taking**: Harder to read cues. Use hand-raise feature, or round robin.
+- **Share agenda in chat**: Pin message or share screen. Easy reference.
+- **Tech check**: "Can everyone see screen? Hear me okay?" at start.
+
+**Tools**:
+- **Video**: Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams
+- **Collaboration**: Mural, Miro, Figma, Google Jamboard, Lucidspark
+- **Voting**: Slido, Mentimeter, Poll Everywhere, built-in Zoom polls
+- **Anonymous Q&A**: Slido, Mentimeter (reduces hierarchy)
+
+### Asynchronous
+
+**When to use**: Global teams (time zones), deep thinking needed, no urgency, writing > talking.
+
+**Process**:
+1. **Post prompt**: Clear question, context, examples, deadline (24-48h)
+2. **Async responses**: People respond in shared doc, thread, video (Loom)
+3. **Synthesize**: Facilitator (or AI) summarizes themes, patterns, questions
+4. **Sync session** (optional): Short call (30-60 min) to discuss, clarify, decide based on async input
+5. **Document decision**: Write up, share with all
+
+**Best practices**:
+- **Clear prompts**: Specific questions, not vague ("What do you think about X?"). Example: "What are the top 3 risks for this feature launch? For each, suggest a mitigation."
+- **Deadline**: Give 24-48h for responses. Longer → people forget.
+- **Acknowledge contributions**: React to comments, thank people for input
+- **Thread discussions**: Use threaded replies (Slack, Notion, Google Docs comments) so conversations organized
+- **Synthesis required**: Don't expect participants to read 50 comments. Facilitator summarizes.
+
+**Tools**:
+- **Docs**: Google Docs (comments), Notion, Confluence
+- **Threads**: Slack, Microsoft Teams, Discord
+- **Video**: Loom (async video responses)
+- **Forms**: Google Forms, Typeform (structured input)
+
+### Hybrid (Some In-Person, Some Remote)
+
+**Hardest to facilitate well**: Remote folks feel like second-class participants.
+
+**Best practices**:
+- **Equalize participation**: Use digital tools even for in-person folks (everyone on laptop + Mural, not whiteboard that remote can't access)
+- **Camera for room**: If in-person group, aim camera at room so remote see body language and who's speaking
+- **Explicit turn-taking**: "Let's hear from remote folks first, then in-person."
+- **Assign in-room advocate**: Someone in-person watches chat, relays remote comments aloud
+- **Minimize hybrid if possible**: Strongly prefer all-remote or all-in-person. Hybrid is hardest.
+
+---
+
+## Summary
+
+**Pattern selection**: Match pattern to objective (divergent brainstorm, convergent decision, alignment, retro, design sprint). Consider group size, time available.
+
+**Agenda design**: Follow diverge-converge flow, time-box ruthlessly, design for energy arc (breaks every 60-90 min, vary modalities).
+
+**Facilitation techniques**: Ensure participation (round robin, 1-2-4-All, silent writing, breakouts), manage time (visible timer, buffer), capture outputs (visible board, scribe, structured notes).
+
+**Difficult dynamics**: Handle dominators (round robin, interrupt gently), silent participants (writing first, pairs, direct invite), conflict (surface it, clarify trade-offs, decision method), tangents (parking lot), low energy (breaks, energizers, stop early), power dynamics (boss speaks last, anonymous).
+
+**Decision methods**: Consensus (slow, high buy-in), consent (safe to try, faster), vote (fast, democratic), advisory (input-driven, one person decides), delegation (empower subset). Choose based on stakes, time, trust.
+
+**Remote facilitation**: Synchronous (cameras on, chat, visual boards, shorter sessions, more breaks, explicit turn-taking). Asynchronous (clear prompts, deadlines, synthesis required). Hybrid (hardest - equalize participation, minimize if possible).
+
+**Final principle**: Facilitation is about process, not content. Facilitator guides how group works together, stays neutral on what group decides. Strong process → better outcomes.

skills/facilitation-patterns/resources/template.md

@@ -0,0 +1,366 @@
+# Facilitation Patterns Templates
+
+Quick-start templates for session design, agenda building, logistics, and follow-up.
+
+## Workflow
+
+```
+Facilitation Planning Progress:
+- [ ] Step 1: Define session objectives
+- [ ] Step 2: Select facilitation pattern
+- [ ] Step 3: Design agenda
+- [ ] Step 4: Prepare materials and logistics
+- [ ] Step 5: Facilitate the session
+- [ ] Step 6: Close and follow up
+```
+
+**Step 1**: Define objectives → Use [Session Design Template](#session-design-template)
+
+**Step 2**: Select pattern → See SKILL.md [Common Patterns](../SKILL.md#common-patterns)
+
+**Step 3**: Design agenda → Use [Agenda Design Template](#agenda-design-template)
+
+**Step 4**: Prepare logistics → Use [Logistics Checklist](#logistics-checklist)
+
+**Step 5**: Facilitate → Use [Facilitation Script Template](#facilitation-script-template)
+
+**Step 6**: Close and follow up → Use [Closing and Follow-up Template](#closing-and-followup-template)
+
+---
+
+## Session Design Template
+
+**Session name**: [Give it a clear, descriptive name]
+
+**Date/Time**: [When, how long]
+
+**Facilitator**: [Who runs it] **Scribe**: [Who takes notes]
+
+### Objective
+
+**Primary goal** (complete this sentence): 
+"By the end of this session, we will have [specific outcome]."
+
+Examples:
+- Decided on Q2 roadmap priorities (top 5 features)
+- Generated 30+ ideas for customer onboarding improvements
+- Aligned on product vision and 6-month milestones
+- Identified 3 improvements from sprint retrospective
+
+**Success criteria**: How will you know if session succeeded?
+- [ ] [Measurable outcome 1]
+- [ ] [Measurable outcome 2]
+- [ ] [Participants report session was valuable (feedback score ≥4/5)]
+
+### Participants
+
+| Name | Role | Why invited | Required? |
+|------|------|-------------|-----------|
+| [Person 1] | [Title] | [Decision-maker, subject matter expert, implementer, stakeholder] | Yes/No |
+| [Person 2] | [Title] | [Reason] | Yes/No |
+| [Person 3] | [Title] | [Reason] | Yes/No |
+
+**Total**: [N people] (ideal: 5-8 for discussion, up to 20 for presentation+Q&A, 3-5 for decision)
+
+**Power dynamics to manage**: [Boss in room? New person? Introverts + extroverts? Conflict between attendees?]
+
+### Pre-work (if needed)
+
+Send 3-5 days before session:
+- [ ] [Read document X]
+- [ ] [Prepare data/examples for discussion]
+- [ ] [Complete survey to gather input]
+
+**Don't overload**: 15-30 min max. If no one does pre-work, session still succeeds.
+
+---
+
+## Agenda Design Template
+
+**Session**: [Name] **Duration**: [Total time]
+
+**Decision method**: [How will decisions be made? Consensus, consent, vote, advisory, delegation]
+
+### Agenda
+
+| Time | Activity | Format | Owner | Output |
+|------|----------|--------|-------|--------|
+| 0:00-0:05 (5 min) | **Welcome & ground rules** | Facilitator presents | [Name] | Shared norms |
+| 0:05-0:15 (10 min) | **Context setting** | Present slides, Q&A | [Name] | Aligned on why we're here |
+| 0:15-0:30 (15 min) | **[Activity 1 name]** | [Silent brainstorm, round robin, etc.] | [Name] | [Output: sticky notes, list] |
+| 0:30-0:50 (20 min) | **[Activity 2 name]** | [Small groups, report back] | [Name] | [Output: clustered themes] |
+| 0:50-1:00 (10 min) | **Break** | | | Recharged |
+| 1:00-1:25 (25 min) | **[Activity 3 name]** | [Dot voting, discussion] | [Name] | [Output: prioritized list] |
+| 1:25-1:35 (10 min) | **Decision** | [Vote, facilitator decides with input] | [Name] | Final decision documented |
+| 1:35-1:45 (10 min) | **Next steps & close** | Facilitator summarizes | [Name] | Action items, owners, dates |
+
+**Total**: 1:45 (105 min) **Buffer**: 15 min for overruns → Schedule 2 hours
+
+### Activity Details
+
+**Activity 1: [Name]**
+- **Goal**: [What you're trying to achieve]
+- **Format**: [How it works - e.g., "Each person writes 5 ideas on sticky notes (5 min), then shares with group (1 min each)"]
+- **Materials**: [Sticky notes, Mural board, shared doc, etc.]
+- **Facilitation tips**: [Start with example, remind time limit, collect notes on board]
+
+**Activity 2: [Name]**
+- **Goal**: [What you're trying to achieve]
+- **Format**: [How it works]
+- **Materials**: [What's needed]
+- **Facilitation tips**: [How to run it well]
+
+**[Repeat for each activity]**
+
+### Flow Check
+
+- [ ] **Diverge before converge**: Generate ideas before evaluating (don't critique during brainstorm)
+- [ ] **Energy variation**: Mix individual work, pairs, whole group. Sit/stand. Talk/silent.
+- [ ] **Breaks**: Every 60-90 min (5-10 min break)
+- [ ] **Buffer time**: 10-15% slack for overruns, questions
+- [ ] **Outputs visible**: Shared board, doc, or projection (everyone sees same thing)
+
+---
+
+## Logistics Checklist
+
+### Before Session (1 week out)
+
+- [ ] **Calendar invite** sent with clear title, objective, agenda, pre-work (if any)
+- [ ] **Room booked** (physical) or **virtual link** created (Zoom, Meet, Teams)
+- [ ] **Materials prepared**: Slides, Mural/Miro board, shared doc, templates
+- [ ] **Tech tested**: Can you share screen? Camera/mic work? Board accessible to all?
+- [ ] **Pre-work sent** (if needed): Clear, time-boxed (15-30 min max), due 1 day before
+
+### Day Before
+
+- [ ] **Reminder sent**: "Looking forward to [session] tomorrow. Please complete [pre-work] if you haven't."
+- [ ] **Agenda finalized**: Timing confirmed, activities clear, decision method chosen
+- [ ] **Roles assigned**: Facilitator, scribe, time-keeper (if different people)
+
+### Day of Session (15 min before)
+
+- [ ] **Room setup**: Chairs arranged (circle for discussion, theater for presentation), whiteboard/flip charts ready
+- [ ] **Tech ready**: Laptop connected, screen sharing works, Mural/doc opened, recording (if applicable)
+- [ ] **Materials accessible**: Links shared in chat, sticky notes available, pens/markers ready
+- [ ] **Facilitator mindset**: Calm, neutral, focused on process (not pushing own opinion)
+
+### During Session
+
+- [ ] **Start on time**: Don't wait for latecomers (trains people to be on time)
+- [ ] **Scribe tracks**: Decisions, action items, questions/parking lot
+- [ ] **Time-keeper alerts**: 5 min warnings, cut discussions if over time
+- [ ] **Facilitator manages**: Participation (quiet voices speak, verbose people time-limited), energy (breaks, pace), focus (parking lot for tangents)
+
+### After Session (within 24 hours)
+
+- [ ] **Notes shared**: What was discussed, decisions made, action items (who, what, when)
+- [ ] **Feedback gathered** (optional): Quick survey (3 questions: What worked? What to improve? Overall rating 1-5)
+- [ ] **Follow-ups sent**: Action item owners reminded, next session scheduled (if needed)
+
+---
+
+## Facilitation Script Template
+
+Use this to run the session smoothly, especially for new facilitators.
+
+### Opening (5 min)
+
+**Welcome**:
+"Thanks for joining [session name]. We have [duration], goal is [objective]."
+
+**Agenda overview**:
+"Here's how we'll spend our time: [list 3-5 key activities]. We'll break at [time]."
+
+**Ground rules** (choose 3-5):
+- One conversation at a time (no sidebar discussions)
+- Vegas rule (what's said here stays here, if sensitive)
+- Challenge ideas, not people
+- Step up, step back (if you talk a lot, make space; if you're quiet, push yourself to contribute)
+- Phones/laptops closed unless needed for the work
+
+**Decision method**:
+"Just so you know upfront, here's how we'll make decisions: [consensus, vote, advisory]. I'll [make final call with your input / we'll vote / we'll discuss until agreement]."
+
+### Transitions Between Activities
+
+**Moving to next activity**:
+"Okay, we've got [summarize output from last activity]. Now we're going to [next activity]. Here's how it works: [explain format]. You'll have [time]. Ready? Go."
+
+**Time warnings**:
+- "5 minutes left"
+- "2 minutes - start wrapping up"
+- "Time's up. Let's hear what you've got."
+
+**Cutting off discussion**:
+"This is a great discussion, but we need to move on to stay on schedule. I'm going to [add to parking lot / table for later / make a call now]."
+
+### Managing Participation
+
+**Inviting quiet voices**:
+- "We haven't heard from [name] yet. [Name], what do you think?"
+- "Let's do a round robin so everyone shares. [Name], want to start?"
+
+**Limiting verbose participants**:
+- "Thanks, [name]. Let's hear from others. Who else has a perspective?"
+- "I'm going to ask you to wrap up in 30 seconds so we can hear from the group."
+- Set time limits: "Everyone gets 2 minutes to present their idea."
+
+**Handling sidebar conversations**:
+- "Hey, can we have one conversation? What were you discussing?"
+- If recurring: "I'm noticing sidebars. Let's stay together or take a break if folks need to connect offline."
+
+### Handling Difficult Situations
+
+**Conflict / disagreement**:
+- "I hear two different views. Let's understand each. [Person A], can you explain your reasoning? Then [Person B], yours."
+- Don't rush to resolve. Air the disagreement, clarify trade-offs, then decide per decision method.
+
+**Tangent / off-topic**:
+- "That's important, but off the agenda for today. I'll add to parking lot. Let's come back to [topic]."
+
+**Someone dominating**:
+- "Thanks for the input. Before we continue, let's hear from others. Quick round robin - 1 min each."
+
+**Energy drop**:
+- "Feeling the energy lag. Let's take a 5 min break."
+- "Quick energizer: Stand up, stretch, shake it out. 30 seconds."
+
+**Confusion about task**:
+- "I see some confusion. Let me re-explain: [clarify activity]. Questions before we start?"
+
+### Closing (10 min)
+
+**Summarize outcomes**:
+"Here's what we accomplished today: [list key decisions, outputs, insights]."
+
+**Action items**:
+"Next steps - I'll read each and confirm owner and due date."
+- [ ] [Action 1] - [Owner] by [Date]
+- [ ] [Action 2] - [Owner] by [Date]
+
+**Parking lot**:
+"We captured these topics for later: [list]. I'll [send to owner, schedule follow-up, add to backlog]."
+
+**Feedback** (optional):
+"Quick feedback: Thumbs up if session was valuable, thumbs sideways if just okay, thumbs down if waste of time." [Tally and note patterns]
+
+**Thanks and close**:
+"Thanks for your time and engagement. Notes will be sent within 24 hours. [Next session scheduled for X date, or I'll follow up with next steps]."
+
+---
+
+## Closing and Follow-up Template
+
+### Session Summary
+
+**Session**: [Name] **Date**: [Date] **Participants**: [Names]
+
+**Decisions Made**:
+1. [Decision 1]: [Rationale - why we chose this]
+2. [Decision 2]: [Rationale]
+3. [Decision 3]: [Rationale]
+
+**Key Insights / Themes**:
+- [Insight 1 from discussion]
+- [Insight 2]
+- [Insight 3]
+
+**Parking Lot** (topics for later):
+- [Topic 1] → [Owner to address / schedule follow-up]
+- [Topic 2] → [Action]
+
+### Action Items
+
+| Action | Owner | Due Date | Status |
+|--------|-------|----------|--------|
+| [Do X] | [Name] | [Date] | Not started |
+| [Do Y] | [Name] | [Date] | Not started |
+| [Do Z] | [Name] | [Date] | Not started |
+
+**Next session**: [Scheduled for X date, or TBD]
+
+### Feedback Summary (if collected)
+
+**Overall rating**: [Average score out of 5]
+
+**What worked**:
+- [Feedback 1]
+- [Feedback 2]
+
+**What to improve**:
+- [Feedback 1]
+- [Feedback 2]
+
+**Facilitator notes** (for yourself):
+- [What I'd do differently next time]
+- [What worked well to repeat]
+
+---
+
+## Quick Templates by Pattern
+
+### Divergent Brainstorm (30-60 min)
+
+```
+Agenda:
+1. Frame the challenge (5 min)
+2. Silent brainstorm on sticky notes (10 min)
+3. Share ideas, one per person (10 min)
+4. Cluster similar ideas (10 min)
+5. Dot voting on most promising (5 min)
+6. Discuss top 5-10 ideas (15 min)
+7. Next steps (5 min)
+
+Materials: Sticky notes, pens, Mural board, dot stickers (or virtual equivalent)
+Output: 30-100 ideas, clustered, top 5-10 prioritized
+```
+
+### Convergent Decision (90 min)
+
+```
+Agenda:
+1. Present context and options (15 min)
+2. Clarifying questions (10 min)
+3. Small groups assess options on criteria (20 min)
+4. Report back, discussion (20 min)
+5. Break (10 min)
+6. Vote or rank options (10 min)
+7. Decision + rationale (10 min)
+8. Next steps (5 min)
+
+Materials: Criteria matrix, voting mechanism (dots, Fist to Five, ranked choice)
+Output: Decision documented with rationale, action items
+```
+
+### Retrospective (60-90 min)
+
+```
+Agenda:
+1. Set the stage: Check-in, ground rules (5 min)
+2. Gather data: Timeline or Start-Stop-Continue (15 min)
+3. Generate insights: Themes, patterns, root causes (20 min)
+4. Decide what to do: Pick 2-3 improvements (15 min)
+5. Close: Appreciation, feedback (5 min)
+
+Materials: Retro board (physical or Retrium/Mural), sticky notes
+Output: 2-3 actionable improvements with owners and dates
+```
+
+### Alignment Session (2-4 hours)
+
+```
+Agenda:
+1. Welcome, agenda, ground rules (10 min)
+2. Context: Why we're here, current state (20 min)
+3. Vision: Where we're going (30 min presentation + Q&A)
+4. Small group discussion: Questions, concerns, gaps (30 min)
+5. Break (15 min)
+6. Report back: Each group shares themes (20 min)
+7. Facilitated Q&A: Address concerns (30 min)
+8. Consensus check: Fist to Five on alignment (10 min)
+9. Next steps, commitments (15 min)
+
+Materials: Presentation slides, breakout spaces, shared doc for questions
+Output: Documented alignment (or misalignment to address), commitments
+```