We need better virtual facilitation tools: A story

I recently spoke with Beth, a professional facilitator. She's been facilitating for seven years and loves it. Her mission is to bring out the best in people. Yet, her story and frustration are similar to the hundreds of facilitators I've spoken with this year.

During the pandemic, Beth tried many tools to increase collaborative participation in her sessions. In the end, she settled on a "digital whiteboard." The infinite possibilities seemed exciting at first. But she soon realized that the whiteboard had a steep learning curve. It intimidated her participants. So, she sent tutorials in advance. She hired a co-facilitator and a tech host. She taught the basics during each session. But still, participants got lost in the infinite canvas. Some got overwhelmed and gave up. And even when they didn't, she had to give them constant direction. She lost precious time and engagement.

Frustrated, Beth now uses a Google Doc. It's easier for her participants. But, it's chaotic when everyone types at once, and she can't do everything she wants to do. For Beth, the most important thing is that every participant feels included. She wants engagement and participation but not at the cost of complexity and friction. She told me that that's actually the job. More than that, it's her calling. To facilitate. To make things easier.

She doesn't need an easier digital whiteboard or a better Google Doc. She needs a new paradigm. She needs a breakthrough user interface for guided remote collaboration. In fact, we all need it.

With expert facilitators, we've started building this paradigm shift. We call it Pathspace, and it's for people like Beth. It enables facilitators to guide participants through a brainstorming and decision-making process. And there’s no learning curve. Now, Beth's participants can feel included, not intimidated. She no longer needs to trade complexity for participation. She can finally facilitate without compromising her life's work.

Try it for yourself at pathspace.com. It's 100% free with no email or signup required. And please post your feedback in the comments below. Thanks!