What is the primary purpose of an affinity diagram?

The primary purpose of an affinity diagram is to organize ideas and data into groups based on relationships. This technique is particularly useful in brainstorming sessions where a diverse set of information and viewpoints are generated. By using an affinity diagram, participants can group similar ideas, themes, or concepts together, which helps to clarify complex information and identify patterns or relationships between various elements. This method enhances understanding and facilitates better decision-making as it allows teams to see connections that may not have been obvious initially.

In contrast, outlining financial projections, creating flowcharts, or evaluating stakeholder expectations involve different processes and tools that are not related to the primary function of an affinity diagram. The affinity diagram focuses specifically on categorizing and prioritizing information rather than forecasting financials or mapping processes.