The Diversity Icebreaker® includes a questionnaire and workshop. Developed between 1995 and 1997 in Norway by psychologist Bjørn Z. Ekelund and his company Human Factors AS, the tool today is available in 19 languages and is being implemented in both very large and small organisations worldwide.
The Diversity Icebreaker® builds on a questionnaire measuring preferences for communication, interaction and different problem-solving styles. Based on their answers (the questionnaire takes only 10 minutes) the participants undergo a unique group processes that develops a shared understanding of how to make use of the diversity. The intervention aims to create a non-judgmental atmosphere through self-revealing and humoristic interpersonal interactions.
A typical Diversity Icebreaker workshop lasts between 1 and 1,5 hours and may include groups between 9 and 200 participants. (For larger groups we use an adaptive approach.) The formula is context-adaptable and opens possibilities to lead the processes after the workshop in many, different directions.
DIVERSITY ICEBREAKER servers a variety of purposes:
- Improving communication
- Developing teams
- Increasing self-awareness
- Enhancing social interaction
- Appreciating differences
- Facilitating constructive group dynamics
- Building trust
- Strengthening dialogue
- Resolving conflict
- Common understanding of concepts
- Leveraging diversity
- Reflecting collectively
