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Our Process
How we work
Group Processes
When you call us for assistance, what can you expect? First, we will have an exploratory discussion about your organization’s needs or problems. Once a team of consultants has been identified to work with you, you can expect a process that looks like this:
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Step 1: Contracting. The consulting team will have an in-depth conversation with you to explore alternatives to help you define and reach your goals. Once the basic shape of the project is identified, we craft a detailed proposal that outlines the steps we expect to take and the timeframe we expect to work in, as well as the projected cost of the project.
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Step 2: Data Gathering. We identify people in the system who have information that is needed for the process. Methods vary, and might include: individual interviews with everyone in the system, or with a representative sample; focus groups; surveys, etc. Data is reported back anonymously.
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Step 3: Feedback. Information collected from the client system is organized by the consulting team into a format that helps the client and the consulting team jointly determine the types of activities that will help the group work together to meet the client’s goals. Feedback is always shared with the client privately first, and then openly with the members of the system, so that everyone has the same information.
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Step 4: Planned Activities. The consulting team will design and facilitate targeted and structured conversations that are designed to move the group forward.
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Step 5: Closing and Evaluation. A final meeting between the team and the client is used to evaluate progress toward meeting client goals.
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Coaching
Coaching work with individual clients follows a similar process. Coaching is driven by client goals, and usually contracted for and scheduled as a package of six to eight sessions. Clients can also contract for data gathering, allowing the consultants to collect feedback from their supervisors, peers and subordinates. At the conclusion of the contracted series of sessions, progress towards goals is evaluated.
Our Values
- Our work is personalized; while we are guided by theory and proven models, we tailor our approach to fit each client system.
- We believe in projects that are results-oriented and achievable – achieving client goals is paramount in our work.
- We believe that change is possible. We know that individual and organizational change requires process expertise and support.
- Multi-cultural awareness is imbedded in every aspect of our work; our consultants are attuned to and skilled at addressing the range of diversity issues that frequently appear in groups.
- Our processes frequently increase transparency in a system, enhancing trust, which is foundational to effective teams and workgroups.
- We value our position as internal/external consultants, balancing our significant internal knowledge of higher education and of the University of Maryland system with our ability to serve as a neutral consultant external to the actual group with which we are working.
- We are committed to getting at root causes, not just superficial symptoms. This is supported by our extensive data-gathering process.
- While our commitment is to the whole system, we respect the dignity of each individual within that system.
- To the extent possible, taking into account the tone and nature of client goals, we incorporate a sense of levity and fun into the work. Addressing complex organizational issues doesn’t have to feel like having a root canal.
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