What is Affinity Diagram?

Affinity diagram can be a practical tool used for sorting research data, process improvement, brainstorming and problem-solving. The affinity diagram organizes the collected data and present them under different groups or categories with common relationships. These relationships are named affinity groups. Complex data can be analyzed by grouping them together and conclude connections between different groups.

The below design shows an example of Affinity Diagram template or Design.

Affinity Diagram Uses

Affinity diagram is one of the most commonly used tool from seven management and planning tools; thus, it is used organization, analysis and prioritization in the project management process. It can be used also to:

       I.            Come up with new solutions concerning different problems by involving different people from different departments.

    II.            Sort large and misleading data and organize them in logical and easier way to understand.

 III.            Encourage the teamwork within the organization so as to reach unique and creative solutions.

IV.            Present data within the organization with easier analysis.

Affinity Diagram Creation

 Affinity diagram can be created by grouping 5-6 experts in the field in order to reach effective outputs or solutions. Affinity diagram can be created by the below steps:

I.                   Present the topic to your team or define the problem in a clear manner.

II.                Ask your team to write one idea on a sticky note.

III.             Collect the notes and put them randomly on the white board or wall.

IV.            Encourage the team to group ideas and label the different groups.