This is an exercise that I like to use in classes and workshops when I want the participants to experience the difference between clear and instant feedback versus exchanging information in writing.

1. Communication and feedback

2. Exercise Work in pairs One person acts as developer One person acts as customer The job is to copy a picture of symbols Customer describes the original picture Developer draws the copy

4. Part 1 Customer and developer sit apart from eachother Customer has 5 min to write a requirements document Just text, no pictures! The developer then has 10 min to implement (draw a copy) Customer may write new requirements during this time, to specify further No other communication allowed!

6. Part 2 Customer and developer sit together Only customer may see original image! Only developer may touch the pen! Pair has 10 min to finish the drawing Any communication is allowed Talking Pointing Visualizing (without customer using the pen!)

8. Debriefing Discuss in the group how the results turned out, how the two simulations differed How can we relate the exercise to a software development project?