Review client intake forms, surveys of community members, boards, employees and volunteers. Frame questions in ways that elicit information on their knowledge, interests and skills that can further your mission and strategies. Instead of automatically defaulting to "What do you need from us?," ask "What can we learn from you?"
Consider alternative approaches to planning. Experiment with asset-based and adaptive processes. Utilize positive change methods of deliberation like Appreciative Inquiry, Open Space Technology and World Café that foster collective intelligence and self organization.
Look at how you are utilizing Board members. Change starts here. Look for ways to leverage their knowledge, skills and assets; resist the temptation to partition them off into an advisory and ethereal "strategic" role while staff run the show. Real strength from better communication and a commitment to learning together. Cultivate this first.
©2007 TAP is funded and managed by St. Luke's Health Initiatives, Phoenix, Arizona 85012
Phone: (602) 385-6500 Fax: (602) 385-6510 feedback@slhi.org