Introduction
Great scenarios feel uncomfortably real. They mirror the messy constraints leaders face: limited data, clashing incentives, and social dynamics.
Context sets the frame; stakes create urgency; ambiguity forces judgment.
What is it?
Design with a six‑element template: Role, Goal, Constraints, Stakeholders, Signal Noise, and Time Pressure. Each element should be explicit in the narrative and mechanics.
Key Points
- Role clarity anchors perspective and information access
- Conflicting KPIs force prioritization and trade‑offs
- Named stakeholders introduce social/ethical dimensions
- Timeboxes create pressure that reveals habits
Use AI to add believable details—emails, dashboards, transcripts—without overwhelming the core decision path.
Why it matters
Leaders don’t decide in a vacuum. Authentic context increases transfer and engagement, especially when outcomes clearly tie to the stakes presented.
Psychological Safety
Clear framing + safe failure invite honest attempts, not performance theater.
Skill Diagnosis
Ambiguity reveals patterns: over‑confidence, analysis paralysis, or avoidance.
Reusability
A well‑crafted context can power multiple variants for progression pathways.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much ambiguity is too much?
If participants feel random or tricked, reduce noise or add hints. Keep uncertainty meaningful, not arbitrary.
How long should a scenario be?
For workshops: 15–30 minutes per scenario. For micro‑sims: 5–10 minutes. Start small, add depth over iterations.
Do I need multimedia?
Only use artifacts that advance decisions—emails, dashboards, or transcripts. Avoid pure decoration.