Running up the flagpole is a colloquial phrase that originated in the United States. It refers to the action of presenting an idea, proposal, or plan to a group of people for consideration, feedback, or evaluation. This expression figuratively draws inspiration from the act of hoisting a flag up a pole for everyone to see.
To run up the flagpole means to showcase or test an idea publicly, often in a professional or formal setting such as a business meeting, conference, or brainstorming session. The purpose of doing so is to gather opinions, provoke discussion, and assess the viability or appeal of the proposed idea or plan. This phrase commonly implies seeking feedback, soliciting suggestions, or determining the level of support or opposition to a particular concept.
The metaphorical use of running up the flagpole suggests that the idea is like a flag waving in the wind, visible to all and open to critique. By displaying the idea in this manner, the person presenting it hopes to gauge its popularity, practicality, or overall acceptance among their peers or superiors.
In a broader sense, running up the flagpole can also represent the act of testing something publicly or seeking validation before proceeding further. It is a way to assess the potential success or failure of an idea, design, product, or strategy by putting it in front of an audience who can provide constructive criticism, insights, or alternative perspectives.
