Manifestos/Principles

Manifesto Refinement

You have a draft manifesto. Now, make it powerful. Manifesto Refinement transforms initial statements into memorable, actionable, and distinctive principles. This exercise takes about 75 minutes. It's best after initial principle generation, but before sharing too widely. The magic happens when wordsmithing reveals deeper truths. Be warned: this requires willingness to cut weak principles. Expect intense editing discussion. You'll know it's working when principles become memorable and shape decisions.

Duration
1.3 hours
Group Size
6-12
Category
Manifestos/Principles
Difficulty
Easy
Energy
Medium

Objectives

Evaluate each principle for clarity, actionability, distinctiveness, and memorability. Refine wording until principles are powerful and concise. Remove redundant or weak principles. Test principles against real decisions.

Outcomes


  • Refined manifesto with clear, actionable language.

  • Team-validated principles.

  • A guiding document ready to publish.

Step-by-Step Instructions


  1. Setup (5 min): Display draft principles. Establish evaluation criteria.

  2. Individual Critique (15 min): Each person evaluates each principle.

  3. Collective Refinement (40 min): Work through each principle, refining wording.

  4. Redundancy Elimination (10 min): Remove or merge similar principles.

  5. Testing (5 min): Test principles against real decisions.

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Facilitator Tips

Before: Ensure draft principles exist. During: Balance wordsmithing with forward progress. After: Document final principles and use them immediately. Sometimes, teams get attached to weak principles. Be ready to help them cut those.

Pre-Work

For Facilitators

  • Review participant profiles and expectations
  • Prepare all materials and supplies
  • Test technology and room setup

For Participants

  • Complete pre-session survey
  • Review background materials
  • Prepare examples or case studies

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Materials Required


  • Draft principles displayed prominently.

  • Editing markers.

  • Testing scenarios.

  • Revision space.

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Resources & Templates

  • Facilitator Guide (PDF)
  • Participant Workbook Template
  • Presentation Slides
  • Printable Materials

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