Constructive Controversy

What is it? A technique for understanding a solution more fully or for improving it by arguing for and against the idea.

When to use it? For very important decisions that need careful deliberation. When there are two or more ideas on the table and group members have differing points of view about them. When exploration of those differences could yield important insights and a better decision.

What does it do? Helps ensure that all points of view have been considered and that the final choice is based on sound analysis. Encourages groups to draw conclusions based on evidence and well-structured reasoning.

What’s the outcome? When opposing views are aired in a constructive environment, the result is a better-thought-out decision.