# Run a working session

> Session tools help you generate ideas, track time and set priorities. They do not replace conversation or decision-making. You can use them on your own in every plan; working with other people…

Source: https://docs.vectorboard.app/en/collaboration/run-a-working-session/ · COLLABORATION

Session tools help you generate ideas, track time and set priorities. They do not replace conversation or decision-making. You can use them on your own in every plan; working with other people requires collaboration. Team adds coordination for large groups.

| Tool | What it does | When to use it |
|---|---|---|
| **Timer** | Counts down; lets you pause, resume and add time. | Limit the duration of an activity. |
| **Dot voting** | Opens a round on a section and shows results. | Prioritize the ideas you gathered. |
| «Silent | Hides the notes until the facilitator | Collect independent ideas before |
| brainstorm» | reveals them. | discussing. |
| **Reactions** | Adds quick responses with emojis. | Signal a reaction without interrupting. |
| **Random pick** | Chooses an item at random. | Pick a turn or an example without preference. |
| Facilitator follow/summon | Directs attention to a shared view and makes it easy to return. | Keep the group in the right area. |

1. Create a section with a clear question and the material needed. Invite the group and check access.
2. Open **Insert** → Working session and choose the tools.
3. Start a timer and a silent brainstorm. Explain that the notes stay hidden until they are revealed.

![Session timer](https://assets.vectorboard.app/docs/fig/fig-939.webp)
*Give an activity a time limit*

4. Reveal the notes, clarify their meaning and group related ideas. Hidden notes are also not visible to agents.

![Sticky notes, sections and connectors](https://assets.vectorboard.app/docs/fig/fig-940.webp)
*Organize a retrospective or a planning session*

5. Open a vote in the right section, review the results and write down the decision explicitly.

![Dot voting](https://assets.vectorboard.app/docs/fig/fig-941.webp)
*Prioritize ideas as a group*

6. Turn the agreements into tasks with owners and dates; leave unresolved questions visible.

> **Expected result:** The session produces decisions and actions with context, not just a collection of colored notes.