What Does This Make Possible?
In 15% Solutions, participants identify small actions they can take right away in response to a challenge. By focusing on what's within our control, we move from feeling powerless to taking initiative and create immediate momentum for change. When everyone contributes their piece of the solution, small shifts can trigger higher-order goals and larger transformations. This structure enacts LS Principle #6, Amplify Freedom and Responsibility.
Structural Elements — Min Specs
-
Structuring Invitation
"Think about a big challenge. Let's imagine 85% of the solution is out of our control, but the other 15% we can act on without permission or additional resources. Where do you have discretion and freedom to act? What can you do to take action right now without more resources or authority?"
-
Space and Materials
Chairs for groups of two to three, with no tables [breakouts of three]. Paper for each participant.
-
Participation Distribution
Roles include host [tech host] and participants. Everyone is invited and has an equal opportunity to contribute.
-
Group Configuration
Alone, pairs, or small groups
-
Steps and Time Allocation
- Intro: Share the structuring invitation and display Figure 5.5 to visualize the 15% concept. (1 min.)
- List Ideas: Participants write down what they can do to take action right now. (5 min.)
- Pair Up and Share Ideas: Participants form groups of two to three [breakouts of three] to share their ideas. (6–9 min.)
- Group Coaching: Participants coach each other on their solutions, asking clarifying questions, offering advice, and making sure the speaker has the power to enact their 15% Solutions. They can ask for permission to share inspiring solutions with the whole group. (11 min.)
- All-Together Sharing: Everyone returns to plenary. A few people share a solution that inspired them. (2 min.)
Tips & Pitfalls
- As part of the structuring invitation, tell a story about a small change that sparked a big result.
- Look for ways to link multiple solutions to work together toward a common purpose.
Riffs & Variations
- Invite consultants to explore a wider array of options by asking, "Where might you have indirect influence on people or groups?" In a group that has done 15% Solutions before, ask people what they have done with their 15% lately.
Practical Applications
- The structure 15% Solutions can help people identify personal behavior changes that could inspire others and generate individual contributions that can be combined into an easily testable prototype.
Online & Hybrid Facilitation
This structure works online with no major adjustments.
Combine with Other Structures
Sources & License
Liberating Structure developed by Henri Lipmanowicz and Keith McCandless. Dig deeper into the work of business theorist Gareth Morgan, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gareth_Morgan_(business_theorist)
Based on the work of Keith McCandless and Nancy White, The Liberating Structures Fieldbook (2026), CC BY-SA 4.0.
