Use when

The issues that surround a problem seem large and complex

The information relevant to the problem appears in unorganised thoughts and ideas

A breakthrough in traditional concepts is needed

Team consensus is essential to successful problem solving

Data are non-numeric

The KJ Method was developed by Jiro Kawakita as a means of organising diverse observations and qualitative information into useful documented facts.

Benefits

It helps separate facts from opinions

It is an efficient way of organising seemingly unrelated facts

It means thoughts are expressed, clarified, summarised and prioritised in a non-confrontational manner

It promotes effective teamwork

It reduces the dominance of a vocal or strong individual on the conclusions of the team

The technique can show positive results after only a few hours of use and can be applied to wide-ranging business problems. It is often used to organise data for a QFD exercise.