Purpose

Twelve Angry Men is designed to explore the basic dynamics of group problem solving and to examine some of the common pitfalls characterizing groups that perform poorly. More important, a fail-safe alternative to such pitfalls is presented in the form of an in-depth blueprint for managing Commitment, Conflict, Creativity, and Consensus - the "Four Cs" of creative group problem solving. Through several structured exercises and feedback sessions, participants have an opportunity to experience some of these dynamics personally and to analyze their own contributions to group and team functioning.

Who Benefits?

Since group problem-solving and decision-making skills are critical at all levels of organizational functioning, this module is appropriate for everyone who works in groups - whether as members-at-large or as leaders. The program is equally appropriate for high-involvement teams, those engaged in strategic planning, and special study groups.

About the Experience

Twelve Angry Men is a consensus decision making exercise built around the classic movie Twelve Angry Men. The outstanding dramatic portrayals in the movie depict numerous examples of human behaviour within groups. This study of group dynamics is a self-convincing exercise providing the potential of group decision making. Combined with Group Barrier Analysis and TES, it creates an unforgettable full-day learning experience.

Twelve Angry Men is intended to accomplish:

• To provide an opportunity to explore more directly and personally group dynamics, both as they are portrayed in the film: Twelve Angry Men (Henry Fonda version), and as they occur in participant groups;
• To provide an opportunity to test out the validity of several principles of group dynamics as these pertain to group productivity;
• To explore the efficacy of individual as compared to group productivity in the making of decisions;
• To experiment with the consensus technique of group functioning; and
• To provide an opportunity for the assessment and critique of individual contributions to team action.

Duration: 2 – 4 hour sessions                                                                                           Team Size: 8-16