A model discussion
Whis is everybody looking at me?Beginning with the concept of a model truck, co-facilitator, Tom McGehee (CEO, WildWorks Group), introduced the purpose of the day by leading the group through an exercise discussing the purpose and function of a model by simply asking, 'What is a model?'

The answer: 'a smaller representation of the real thing by which decisions can be made.'

Tom explained that every time our minds receive new information, we automatically categorize that information based on patterns.  To move forward, we must allow ourselves to see things differently to be able to change/adapt our perceptions.

With that in mind, Tom explained two Rules for Model Making:

    1. no models are perfect, some are useful
    2. it is difficult to change a model that is working

Guiding Principles

The next foundational step was outlining six guiding principles upon which the sessions would be based.

The combination of these principles created the venue for participants to engage in a Results-Based Conversation™.


Three principles are Actions-based:
  1. Knowledge—Presenting the right set of facts and information required for the participants to do what they need to do in the session.
  2. Understanding—Allowing participants to work with the knowledge presented in order to gain a proper and complete perspective on the decisions under consideration.
  3. Decision & Action—The level of decision making that is desired in the session.  Decisions are only effective when they include corresponding action plans.
These principles guided the phases of the day's progress. 

Three principles are Attitudes-based:

  1. Presence—Keeping all of the participants present and focused on the work at hand.
  2. Sense of Discovery—Seeking to explore new or different views and alternative approaches.
  3. Work to Win—Participants work together, focusing on positive and expanding opportunities.
These principles were key ingredients to the progress achieved in each of the sessions.

The Six Realities

The other factor in collaborative work is guiding the mindset of the participants toward the desired focus they should maintain during the session.

Using “The Six Realities” model, Surgance guided the group in this area with the following interrogatory concepts:

  1. What was—Past experiences and perceptions
  2. What is—The facts as we know them
  3. What might be—Possibilities as we might imagine them
  4. What could be—Models and concepts that we could actually take action upon
  5. What should be—Understanding the right thing to do, among a number of good possibilities
  6. What will be—The models, concepts and ideas that we will turn into plans and actions

For more information on the Center for Excellence OR to get involved, contact the Visionary Leadership Team at:

cfe@surgance.com