PROCESS

Step 1 - Structured Brainstorming - generate a broad but integrated spectrum of potential objectives.Everybody has input!! Every single person gets involved by expressing their ideas and expanding on the ideas of others. This kind of lets people know that their ideas are important -- which they are!

Step 2 - Affinity Diagramming - organize and summarize all potential objectives into natural grouping that categorize essential action steps.This means we'll group ideas by categories, so you'll know what the common themes are! Everybody works on this, so the interaction can be fun and energetic!

Step 3 - Interrelationship Diagraph - Systematically analyze the cause and effect relationship between critical strategies in order to determine strategic "drivers".Which comes first, the chicken or the egg? Although we won't answer this question, you'll decide which ideas must be implemented first. You'll be surprised how people view things differently -- but don't worry, this will work out!

Step 4 - Pareto Ranking - Rank order the critical strategies based upon quantitative evaluation of their strategic impact potential.You'll figure out which priority carries the most weight based on #3. Don't tell anybody, but this is actually based on quantitative evaluation!!

Step 5 - Gap Charting - Visually define the relative strength or weakness of each strategy in terms of the organization's current capability.This is really eye-opening! You will figure out where you are on each strategy compared with where you could be!

Step 6 - Strategic Leverage Charting - Combine ranking and capability charts to determine where high importance and low capability overlap and indicate priority strategic attention.This is where you decide where to put the most focus and energy. Your people will walk away from this knowing they are heading in the right direction.

Step 7 - Action Plan Format - create and accountability mechanism including Tasks, Responsibility, Time Frame, Dollars, and Status Reporting.This is the moment of truth! You'll decide who will do what, when!!! And everybody gets to voice their opinion -- and concerns. And you know what else? When people are involved in the decision about what must be done, they are more likely to follow through with their part!!

LOGISTICS:
This process is extensive and requires a lot of creative energy. Shirley can help you determine the amount of time needed and often suggests a two to three day retreat. Or your group can convene for several sessions over a period of time. She will assist you in determining the best environment for maximum participation to get the results you want.