Force field analysis

What is a force field analysis?
How to perform a force field analysis
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A force field analysis helps a team study a problem's positives and negatives, and how they impact resolving that problem. It can present pros and cons in an easy comparison, allowing for consensus and collective decision-making.

1. Draw field

On a large piece of paper, draw a large letter T. At the top of the T, write the key issue or problem your team will analyze. To the right of the top of the T, describe the ideal situation you would like to achieve.

2. Fill chart

Brainstorm together the factors that can positively push you toward your ideal situation (driving forces), and the factors that impede you from reaching your ideal situation (restraining forces). These can be either internal or external factors.

3. Prioritize

Prioritize the driving forces that can be strengthened, and identify the restraints that would allow for the most progress toward the ideal state if they were eliminated.

Force Field Analysis
Mind Tools

Whiteboard: Force Field Analysis (YouTube: 3:29)
Institute for Healthcare Improvement

Public Health Memory Jogger
Public Health Foundation, GOAL/QPC