Groupthink is a phenomenon that occurs when a team reaches a consensus without critical discussion or evaluation of other options.
This is a common issue in immature teams where the level of discussion is low. (See team phases for more information.)
It is important to be aware of the potential for groupthink, especially when combined with priming, as it can lead to a narrow focus on the HiPPO issue.
In a team setting, groupthink can limit the ability to find better options or evaluate opportunities and risks.
To combat this, implement the following strategy in meetings: allocate a few minutes during meetings for each member to write down their own ideas.
When it’s time to make a decision, have everyone write their vote on a card and then collect the cards.
Each topic must have advocates for at least two opposing opinions, as suggested by deep democracy.
Albrecht Günther 