When you need to think carefully about the value of a complex thing. The thing might be a design, topic, event, research finding or idea.

List the positives, the negatives and the areas of potential. Then cluster and discuss. Avoid suggesting solutions.

1. Select and agree the specific topic/thing for consideration.
2. Write a short description or find a suitable image of the thing.
3. Put it on the wall, space or virtual whiteboard and make sure everyone's happy with it.
4. Assign colour-coded real/virtual post-it notes:
   • Rose = Pink (Positive aspects of this thing)
   • Thorn = Blue (Negative aspects of this thing)
   • Bud = Green (Potential in this thing)
5. Get people to write as many post-its as they can within the time limit.
6. Cluster post-its and discuss.