Explicitly Navigate Trade-offs

Explicitly Navigate Trade-offs

When faced with competing objectives, make the trade-off explicit. Clearly articulate the different paths and their respective benefits and drawbacks, allowing the group to consciously choose their preferred direction. Example The team debated between making...
Explicitly Navigate Trade-offs

Deliver Ground Truth Post-Session

Prepare a concise, evidence-based summary of observations, outcomes, and recommendations. Present this 'ground truth' to key stakeholders, especially those who were not fully present, framing it as a path to their ultimate success. Example After the manager...
Explicitly Navigate Trade-offs

Address Goal Misalignment Mid-Session

If significant goal misalignment becomes apparent during a session, pause the primary activity. Dedicate a short, focused segment to explicitly check in and realign on the workshop's purpose with all key participants present. Example The facilitator realized the...
Explicitly Navigate Trade-offs

Leverage Aligned Goals for Direction

If a clear, aligned goal exists, use it as a reference point to guide the discussion. Periodically, 'zoom out' to remind participants of the shared objective and evaluate if the current path serves that goal. Example When the workshop started drifting...
Explicitly Navigate Trade-offs

Respect Legacy Systems’ History

Assume legacy systems were successful in their original context and built with good intentions. This fosters respect and helps uncover underlying value, rather than dismissing them outright. Recognize that their past success often funded current initiatives. Examples...