KJ method

This method, also known as the Affinity Diagram, was created by Jiro Kawakita at the Technological Institute in Japan. Originally was used in the anthropology field as an operating synthesis. Its goal was to obtain a scientific and systematic approach for problem solution. It applies to making reality analyses, strategies' initial determination, and operating and contingent planning. Its procedure starts with creating cards, for all the ideas/topics/aspects which define the problem to analyze. The further steps are: 1. To sort the cards, grouping them into top-level sets of related items (Groups integration and nomination) and then iterating the process, forming smaller and smaller subgroups. Applying the Hyosatsu process2. To elaborate the KJ “A” diagram (to show the existing relationships among the (sub-)groups using arrows and symbols). 3) To explain the results written or verbally. Its advantages are that it allows concrete and accurate problem location. The problem’s hypothesis elaboration is generated by experts. It conjugates experience and reflection. Its main limitation is the difficulty in obtaining researcher impartiality in choosing the information.