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Facilitated Group
Fishbowl Technique
A facilitated dialogue where a small group discusses a topic in an inner circle while a larger group observes from an outer circle. Observers can temporarily join the inner circle, often by replacing a participant, to contribute perspectives and enable large-group participation in a controlled, dynamic format.
When This Method Fits
Typical duration
Hours
Typical cost
Low
Fidelity level
Talk Only
Stage
Discovery
Hypothesis type
Exploratory
Goal type
Find product-market fit, Deepen product-market fit, Maximize societal impact, Drive corporate innovation / R&D, Improve operational efficiency
Randomization
N/A
Study design
Cross-sectional multi-group study
Minimum units needed
8
1Best Fit When
Best when a large, diverse group needs structured discussion on a topic without descending into an unmanageable free-for-all.