Scribing/visual facilitation/graphic recording is one of the best ways to create group synergies, common understandings, visuals for clarity and progression forward.
A slight tangent on graphic facilitation is the pure-play use of cartoons. Jesse van Vraagje is one of the most experienced cartoonists in Europe as well as on the of best real time cartoon makers during collaborative events.
Watch this video of him creating cartoons during a synthesis conversation:
Cartoons for Collaboration from Brandon Klein on Vimeo.