Affinity Diagram

How to Make an Affinity Diagram

SmartDraw makes creating professional affinity diagrams simple, with easy-to-use templates allowing you to create diagrams in minutes.

The diagram is basically organized into columns and rows. A basic affinity diagram template will have some sample groups and empty rows and columns you can start filling out just by typing. With SmartDraw, you can also quickly add more columns and rows just with a click of a button.

Best Practices When Creating Affinity Diagrams

1. Identify the purpose of the diagram.
   Determine the issue or aspect of business that will be the focus of the affinity diagram. Enter an appropriate title at the top of the page.
2. Determine groupings.
   Create major categories into which the solutions or factors can be arranged. These groupings should be shown in a logical, natural way and should be able to encompass more than one of the minor factors.
3. Determine contributing factors.
   Decide what major information, ideas, or issues to include.
4. Organize.
   Place each of the factors within its associated grouping to begin. Continue to divide the factors until each has been placed under an appropriate category.
5. Analyze and share.
   Analyze the affinity diagram with team members. This will help the team reach a decision or come to a better understanding of the key issues to address.