A SIT conversation round follows a clear, yet deliberately non-rigid structure. The framework is intended to provide orientation and ensure that all participants can be heard, without unnecessarily restricting the flow of the conversation.
A conversation evening typically lasts two hours and consists of several consecutive phases – from the thematic introduction to a shared conclusion.
Preparation before the conversation
Each SIT round begins before the actual meeting takes place. One participant prepares the topic and provides a short description or a suitable source, which is made available to all participants in advance.
All other participants register for the round by submitting their own question related to the topic. These questions are collected prior to the meeting and form the basis for the topic holder’s preparation. The order of the questions defines the structure of the later discussion.
Time frame of a SIT round
The following time frame serves as guidance for a typical SIT round (minimum of 3 and maximum of 5 questions). The maximum duration is binding in order to prevent excessive digressions and to keep recurring conversation evenings within a sustainable and predictable structure.
Before the start Arrival, shared commitment, clarification of roles
0–15 minutes Thematic introduction by the prepared participant
15–90 minutes Discussion of the submitted questions (15 min per question)
90–105 minutes Personal reflection (What do I take with me?)
105–120 minutes Open conversation with shared conclusion and closing
Beginning of the SIT round
At the beginning of the conversation evening, all participants come together and confirm the shared SIT commitment. This commitment forms the foundation for a respectful and open exchange.
Afterwards, the supporting roles for the evening are defined, in particular the timekeeper and the note-taker.
Thematic introduction
The prepared participant now introduces the topic. Central elements of the source are explained, connections are outlined, and personal thoughts are made transparent.
This introduction usually takes about 15 minutes and serves to create a shared starting point for the conversation.
Discussion of the submitted questions
The previously submitted questions are then addressed one by one. A time frame of 15 minutes is allocated for each question.
First, the person who submitted the question has the opportunity to briefly contextualize it. Then, the prepared participant answers the question based on their preparation and, if applicable, additional research.
(each up to a maximum of 5 minutes)
In the next step, other participants may contribute their own thoughts, follow-up questions, or additions – provided that the questioner agrees and that there is still time available within the overall 15-minute limit. The decision as to whether and in which order contributions are heard lies with the person who submitted the question.
It is also possible that the full 15 minutes are not used. In this case, the remaining time is added to the next question.
Open conversation and reflection
Once all questions have been addressed, time is allocated for an open conversation aimed at arriving at a shared understanding.
At the beginning of this phase, each participant briefly shares which positive (!) thoughts, impulses, or insights they are taking away from the evening (2–3 minutes per person).
Afterwards, open points may be explored further and differing perspectives jointly reflected upon, allowing the group to arrive at a collective conclusion.
Shared conclusion
At the end of the SIT round, a shared conclusion is formulated. This conclusion captures the insights gained, identifies where differing viewpoints remain, and notes which questions may require further exploration.
The conclusion is jointly supported by the group and recorded in the round’s documentation.
It may also include unresolved points or suggestions for further deepening of the topic.
Follow-up and framework
The results, open questions, further thoughts, and any relevant source references are documented using a standardized record, the SIT Note, and shared according to prior agreement.
How this documentation is carried out and which shared attitude underpins the entire process is described on the following pages.