Adaptive Demo Delivery#

Tags delivery adaptation experiment delivery improv feedback

Short Description#

Adjusting the delivery of a demo based on real-time feedback and participant engagement to reinforce learning outcomes.

Also Known As#

Responsive Demonstration, Flexible Example, Improvisational Demo

Context#

This pattern applies specifically to modules that incorporate demonstrations by the facilitators, such as Module 2 (Assumptions) and Module 4 (Listening with Curiosity).

Problem#

How to ensure a demo is effective and resonates with participants when real-time feedback indicates the initial approach is not working or is causing confusion.

Solution#

The facilitator constantly monitors the audience, questions the audience and has a series of different examples at different levels prepared to share.

Forces#

  • Diverse Learning Styles: Participants learn in different ways.

  • Feedback from participants: The demonstration should be able to gather feedback from participants.

Implementation#

  1. Have a Plan A - and plan B and plan C: Know what you want the demo to show before you start. Be prepared to throw it out the window.

  2. Facilitator Awareness: The facilitator delivering the demo must be highly attuned to participant cues (e.g., confused expressions, lack of engagement in chat) and be able to adapt accordingly.

  3. Question and Adjust: Where appropriate, the facilitator should ask a question to the audience and seek to work what what the demo is showing for them based on that.

  4. Simplify the Questions: Change or ask different questions if required.

  5. Communicate. Talk to other delivery members to assist

Examples#

  • Observation from CSV: “Christian missed a step in the demo - went straight to the questions. However he then asked some more questions to get back on track.”

  • Observation from CSV: “On the assumptions exercise, Christine said it was easy to look after and she liked her plant - Does this help people?”

  • Observation from CSV: “Christian tried putting the questions up on a flipchart and pointing to them as he was doing the demo”

Rationale#

Meeting a group where they are ensures better value.

Consequences#

  • Positive: Improved understanding for participants.

  • Negative: May take time to deliver demo and be confusing.

Credits#

Better Conversations Community