Model Consolidation

After the 'Individual Exercise' concluded, the group reassembled and the participants were again divided into different random work groups (assigned by the number within the square on their nametags) and sent to their respective tables to begin the model consolidation process—the key exercise of the day—focusing on 'What Could Be'.

Starting with a blank template (below), each work group convened to begin this crucial exercise.

In their new work groups, each participant shared their poster—their individual solution models—with the rest of the group.  Instructed to create a consolidated model based on the best thinking their group, the participants used the template to capture their group’s model and identify 2-3 short-term actions.

‘Process is more appropriate than product’
‘We are a neural network, therefore we must model proper function’
‘People tend to help, protect, and defend something in which they have a stake’
‘A good model has interchangeable parts’

Reviewing the templates (below), a narrowing of common themes which resonated within each of the work groups:

• it’s organizational in function, not hierarchical in function
• important to allow this process to take place in its proper ‘gestational period’
• Appreciative inquiry process which gives due respect for each phase
• Executive Leadership Experience™
• humanistic approach
• inventory management of what’s going on out there...what assets & services are already available in the community
• survey tools, phone conversations, focus groups, personal visits
• broader diversity of stakeholders (Gen-X, Gen-Y, etc)
• invest in infrastructure—you get what you pay for...in space AND in talent
• ongoing communications network
• reconvene stakeholders, including those participating today
• commmunity champions & interim staff to keep things rolling