Using the Diamond in a workshop setting

The diamond, combined with the Metaplan method, can be a useful tool in structuring a brief workshop (total duration two to three hours). The consultants first explain Michael Porter’s diamond. Among the concepts which aim at identifying key factors of successful development, this has the advantage that it can be explained rapidly (i.e. within 10 - 15 minutes) - its disadvantage, i.e. the neglect of several important factors, is ironically its advantage when it comes to do something quick. But it also has the advantage of introducing some crucial concepts which often have never been considered by local actors. In particular, this applies to the factor "sophisticated demand".

The participants are then asked to note strong points, weak points, and observations regarding each of the four factors of the diamond, i.e. first firms and business strategies, then suppliers, subcontractors, and service providers, then supporting institutions, and finally sophisticated demand. This is done using the Metaplan method, i.e. writing with markers on cards sized 21 x 10 cm, with its three basic rules - one idea per card, up to three lines / seven words per card, and legibility of writing. Each participant will usually write between three to six cards for each of the four factors (though, usually many participants find it difficult to come up with any cards when it comes to sophisticated demand). Each of the four angles of the diamond is introduced separately. The cards are attached to the wall and clustered according to strong points, weak points, and observations; in fact, it often happens that discussions erupt whether a given observation denotes a strong or a weak point. The result of this exercise will normally be a wall covered with a large number of cards. This gives the consultants an important input in terms of both information about the local economic structure and impressions of the perceptions of local key actors. An important element of this exercise are diverging views and discussions which erupt between the participants.

This kind of exercise can be used both in a group of representatives from different sectors of a local economy, or with a group of representatives from a more homogeneous group, e.g. one branch of the local economy. In either case it serves two purposes. First, it renders a snapshot of the local economy which is usually useful for outsiders. Second, it lets local actors look at their reality in a different way. In particular the category "sophisticated demand" is often something entirely new, and looking at economic development potentials from this angle can be very helpful for local actors.

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