Systemic board guide: setting up step by step
This guide shows a typical flow for working with the systemic board, with questions for each phase. It works with wooden figures as well as with an online systemic board.
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1. Clarify the concern
Before the first figure is placed, clarify what the session is about. A clear concern helps to decide who or what belongs on the board.
- What would you like to look at today?
- How would you notice that the constellation was worth it?
- Who or what is part of this topic?
2. Choose figures
Your client chooses a figure for each person, role or topic. Shape, colour and size may mean something, but they do not have to. Ask when a choice stands out.
- Which figure fits this person?
- What does it mean that this figure is bigger than the others?
3. Set up
Now your client places the figures on the board, ideally by feel and without thinking for long. Three things matter: the distance between the figures, their viewing direction and their place on the board, for example in the middle or at the edge.
4. Let the picture sink in
Look at the constellation together before changing anything.
- What do you notice when you see the board like this?
- Who stands close to whom, who is far away?
- Where does the figure that stands for you look? Who is behind it?
- How does this figure feel in its place?
5. Change perspectives
A change of perspective often brings new insights. At a wooden board you lean over it or walk around the table. On a 3D board you switch to a figure's inside view or to the meta position.
- What does this figure see from its place?
- How does the whole look when you view it from outside?
6. Try out changes
Now things may move. Ask where a figure would rather stand, or change a distance as a trial. Keep the starting constellation so you can compare; on a digital board you simply duplicate it.
- Where would be a good place for this figure?
- What changes when this figure comes one step closer?
- What is still missing on the board, for example a resource?
7. Close
At the end, it is about what your client takes away. An image or PDF of the board helps to pick up the session later.
- What has become clear to you today?
- Which picture would you like to remember?
- What is a first small step?
Frequently asked questions
How many figures belong on the board?
As many as needed, as few as possible. A few figures are often enough to start, and more can be added at any time. Vauri allows up to 100 elements per board.
Who sets up, my client or me?
Usually your client sets up, because it is about their inner picture. You support with questions. On the online systemic board you give your guest editing rights for this.
Does the guide work for teams too?
Yes. The steps are the same; instead of family members, people, roles or departments stand on the board.
The online systemic board in 3D. Live and together.