This sheet is sourced from Figure 10-2 in "Immunity to Change: How to Overcome It and Unlock the Potential in Yourself and Your Organization".
1a. Describe what you are going to do. What will this experiment look and sound like? (Make sure you are doing something different from what your Big Assumption would normally have you do.)
1b. Explain how you think your test (1a) will get you data about your Big Assumption.
2a. What data do you want to collect? Specify what the data will look and sound like. Additionally, your own feelings constitute data. In this regard, specify the data you will collect from yourself?
2b. How will these data help you to confirm or disconfirm your Big Assumption? What results would lead you to believe your Big Assumption is correct? What results would lead you to question the validity of your Big Assumption?
2c. Is there anyone you would like to notify or ask to serve as an observer who can give you feedback after the fact?
3. Finally, review your test on these criteria:
· Is it safe? (If the worst case scenario were to happen, you could live with the results)
· Are the data relevant to your Big Assumption? (see 2b)
· Is it valid? (The test actually tests your Big Assumption; see 1b)
· Are the data sources valid? (Choose sources who are neither out to get you nor trying to protect or save you)
· Might it actually reinforce your Big Assumption? (Is it designed so that it surely will lead to bad consequences, just as your Big Assumption tells you? Are you setting yourself up to fail? Are there any data you could collect that could disconfirm your Big Assumption?)
· Can it be done soon? (The person or situation you need in order to enact the test is available, you are reasonably certain you know how to do what you plan, and you can run the test within the next week or so.)