SparkMap: a unique tool for multidimensional thinking

A Hunome SparkMap streamlines group deliberation and overcomes the limitations of traditional methods

SparkMap by Hunome offers a powerful means to visually represent a collective's comprehension and varied viewpoints regarding a particular subject, trend, dilemma, concept, or matter (referred to as "theme" within Hunome). It serves as a platform to illuminate fresh insights and correlations that might have remained undiscovered.

Hunome´s SparkMaps help groups to…

• see the depth and breadth of the knowledge their group holds,

• arrive at a shared understanding,

• make better and more sustainable decisions from this shared understanding.

How to build multidimensional understanding

As soon as you’ve joined Hunome you can start building. While you might kickstart a theme purely for your own exploration, others can contribute valuable insights, helping you to uncover dimensions and perspectives you may not have considered previously. This collaborative approach enriches the understanding and depth of exploration within the theme.

An initial thought or idea shapes a new SparkMaps and gradually expands to form a more comprehensive understanding by incorporating additional thought connections. 

Some of our current Sparkmap themes include:

• Adjusting to new cultures

• The raw power of curiosity

• The limitations of AI

• The future of work

• MisInformation is rife

• Demographic shifts and its impacts

• Universal Basic income

• EU energy policy

An initial SparkMap build on the theme of misinformation

Use online meetings to create a SparkMap together

Some groups have used scheduled Zoom sessions to facilitate a thought build using SparkMap. Some ways to enhance the collective sensemaking include:

• Begin the session by encouraging team members to share stories from their personal or professional lives. This will ground the discussion and foster a deeper understanding of each other's perspectives and experiences.

• Towards the end of the session, ask participants to reflect on their contribution. This may help further identify one or two transformative questions or thoughts. It also helps distill key insights from the discussion.

• Throughout the session, maintain awareness of potential knowledge gaps or unexplored branches. Encourage participants to explore areas that may lead to new insights or perspectives.

Invite the team back after a week or so to add to the SparkMap further. Building a comprehensive SparkMap requires multiple sessions to develop a holistic understanding. This continuity allows for the refinement and expansion of ideas over time.

Positive feedback from organizations like Systems Change Finland and Friends of Curiosity has demonstrated the efficacy of SparkMap as a tool for uncovering new connections and ideas. 

If your group is interested in trying out SparkMaps, don't hesitate to reach out to us at hello@hunome.com. We'd be delighted to help you get started.