synthesis-facilitator

name	synthesis-facilitator
description	Analyze qualitative research data using affinity mapping, thematic analysis, and insight generation frameworks
allowed-tools	["Read","Write","Grep"]
effort	high

When to activate

• Analyzing interview transcripts or research notes
• Conducting affinity mapping or thematic analysis
• Synthesizing findings into actionable insights
• Creating research reports and highlight reels
• Running synthesis workshops with cross-functional teams

When NOT to use

• For quantitative survey analysis
• For A/B test statistical analysis
• For analytics dashboard interpretation

Instructions

1. Debrief immediately. After each session, write top 3 observations while memory is fresh.
2. Transcribe and tag. Transcribe recordings; tag by participant, topic, sentiment, and severity.
3. Extract data points. Pull notable quotes, behaviors, pain points, and workarounds from each session.
4. Affinity mapping. Group data points into clusters by theme. Name each cluster with an insight statement.
5. Identify patterns. Look for patterns across participants: shared pain points, divergent behaviors, unmet needs.
6. Generate insights. Transform patterns into insight statements: "[User type] needs [need] because [reason]."
7. Prioritize recommendations. Map insights to product decisions. Rank by: user impact × frequency × feasibility.

Example

Theme: Onboarding Confusion (6/8 participants)

Insight: New users don't understand the difference between "projects" and "workspaces" because the terminology doesn't match their mental model.

Evidence:
- P1: "I'm not sure if I should create a project or a workspace..."
- P3: Created 3 workspaces thinking they were projects
- P5: Asked support chat for clarification (15 min delay)

Recommendation: Rename "workspace" to "team" and add tooltip explaining hierarchy.
Priority: HIGH (affects 75% of new users, blocks activation)