One of the concepts we've been exploring in the Facilitative Leadership Forum this autumn is Presencing -- how in sensing the present we are building capability to presence the emerging future. We're finding this is not a simple concept to tryly embody in our day to day. Old habits really are hard to break. Moments are all I've been able to practice ... I guess that's the best place to start.
This morning I recieved the November newsletter from the Berkana Institute www.berkana.org which includes information about two workshops with Arawana Hayashi. I attended a Pegusus preconference workshop last year and in one day was transformed. I can't wait to participate in a longer session with Arawana. There's no better way to really get a concept like Theory U http://www.presencing.com/ than to deeply esperience in your body, deep in your bones. Moving beyond the mental contraints of trying to understand and master to simply moving and dancing with the intention of sensing and allowing. Wonder-full!
"Embodied Presence Practice with Arawana Hayashi, November 21, 2009, Boston, MA, and December 10-13, 2009, Rosendale, NY. Participate in a capacity-building workshop on meditation and embodied presence practice to support and deepen change work using Theory U. The workshop offers non-verbal methods for recognizing limiting thinking and for cultivating the capacity to move toward sensing the present, presencing an emerging future, and realizing beneficial results. Read more about this opportunity. http://www.arawanahayashi.com/socialtheater.htm"
If this attract you I encourage you to follow your heart and mind. With Love, Lynette
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Monday, March 17, 2008
Do we have any new readers?
From Susannah -
A special welcome to all our friends who are now visiting our Blog after receiving our announcement post card. We love to drop real postcards to family, friends and those we've met on our Ah Ha! journey (you fall in the friends category to us). We'll keep sending out postcards to make sure your snail mail has something more than bills and sales pitches in it - and this blog is our way of keeping in touch too.
Thanks for visiting and be sure to post a comment with your ideas, questions or things you'd like to hear more about - or send us an email if you'd rather not post it (we'll keep your identity safe). info@experienceahha.com is the best place to reach us - or reach any of us with our first name followed by @experienceahha.com.
We look forward to hearing from you.
A special welcome to all our friends who are now visiting our Blog after receiving our announcement post card. We love to drop real postcards to family, friends and those we've met on our Ah Ha! journey (you fall in the friends category to us). We'll keep sending out postcards to make sure your snail mail has something more than bills and sales pitches in it - and this blog is our way of keeping in touch too.
Thanks for visiting and be sure to post a comment with your ideas, questions or things you'd like to hear more about - or send us an email if you'd rather not post it (we'll keep your identity safe). info@experienceahha.com is the best place to reach us - or reach any of us with our first name followed by @experienceahha.com.
We look forward to hearing from you.
Monday, March 3, 2008
Your Questions Answered
From Susannah
In this entry - and hopefully many more, we'll provide our thoughts on typical questions that we receive. These are from a LearningConnect Trainee who has been out there in the field practicing. Names, Businesses and Categories have been removed to preserve confidentiality. I hope this spurs you on to share what you might be wondering about. So without further ado...
Q. We ran a LearningConnect and it was great! We got lots of good information but there was also an “impossible table” that really hated us and glared at us for making them cut out pictures, pictures and more pictures to represent their category experiences.
A. One thought on the glaring table issue is to be aware (for future session) who was hosting that table...not that there's always something that you can do, but the energy of the hosts or how confident they are in the instructions can affect the guests. You can coach your team - even in the moment - to just go with the exercise, and trust that it will be helpful.
Later, even if they didn't like what they were doing... you can, in the visual analysis, see if their pictures are similar or different to the other tables or to another table of the same segment of users in another session. It can be an uncomfortable and personal topic and any hesitation, glaring or silliness can be a cover to hide that discomfort. Just stay with that table (not to the exclusion of the others of course) and honor the participants, let them know how amazingly helpful they are and how much you appreciate them. It should help.
As an aside, not all activities need to require pictures. The conversation can be very powerful and when captured on a Graphic template can stimulate lots of ideas and draw out all guests into the conversation.
Q. Having done a LearningConnect and gone through the analysis, “Do you have any suggestions about how to present this learning? Right now, it’s just in a PowerPoint presentation with lists. The plan is to scan in the pictures that our guests had cut out … but somehow this doesn’t seem as descriptive. “
A. For analysis and sharing (Stages 5 & 6) - recall that the principle of how adults learn is to Experience, Reflect then Act... so in transferring the knowledge to others outside the team, the more you can help them to see and feel (create the experience) by sharing the stories and images and templates the more those receiving the new information will be able to integrate it with their existing knowledge base.
Some ideas include creating a gallery with lots of the data and summary charts for people to see and work with - to Expreience the learning for themselves. The Reflect part is having them really work with the new information - in small groups or pairs or individually.... do a gallery walk, see what they notice, what's similar or different about one group or another. You can overlay the recorded voices telling their stories, create summary models that visualize how your consumer guests see their experiences. The more immersive and experiential - and tapping into different learning modalities (visual, auditory and kinesthetic) the more your organization will be able to take in the knowledge.
And don't forget to have them Act on the information - have some conversation as a team or organization about what implications there might be for your business based on what they are seeing and hearing. "So what about that? - what should we do? and create a clear plan of action and next steps.
In this entry - and hopefully many more, we'll provide our thoughts on typical questions that we receive. These are from a LearningConnect Trainee who has been out there in the field practicing. Names, Businesses and Categories have been removed to preserve confidentiality. I hope this spurs you on to share what you might be wondering about. So without further ado...
Q. We ran a LearningConnect and it was great! We got lots of good information but there was also an “impossible table” that really hated us and glared at us for making them cut out pictures, pictures and more pictures to represent their category experiences.
A. One thought on the glaring table issue is to be aware (for future session) who was hosting that table...not that there's always something that you can do, but the energy of the hosts or how confident they are in the instructions can affect the guests. You can coach your team - even in the moment - to just go with the exercise, and trust that it will be helpful.
Later, even if they didn't like what they were doing... you can, in the visual analysis, see if their pictures are similar or different to the other tables or to another table of the same segment of users in another session. It can be an uncomfortable and personal topic and any hesitation, glaring or silliness can be a cover to hide that discomfort. Just stay with that table (not to the exclusion of the others of course) and honor the participants, let them know how amazingly helpful they are and how much you appreciate them. It should help.
As an aside, not all activities need to require pictures. The conversation can be very powerful and when captured on a Graphic template can stimulate lots of ideas and draw out all guests into the conversation.
Q. Having done a LearningConnect and gone through the analysis, “Do you have any suggestions about how to present this learning? Right now, it’s just in a PowerPoint presentation with lists. The plan is to scan in the pictures that our guests had cut out … but somehow this doesn’t seem as descriptive. “
A. For analysis and sharing (Stages 5 & 6) - recall that the principle of how adults learn is to Experience, Reflect then Act... so in transferring the knowledge to others outside the team, the more you can help them to see and feel (create the experience) by sharing the stories and images and templates the more those receiving the new information will be able to integrate it with their existing knowledge base.
Some ideas include creating a gallery with lots of the data and summary charts for people to see and work with - to Expreience the learning for themselves. The Reflect part is having them really work with the new information - in small groups or pairs or individually.... do a gallery walk, see what they notice, what's similar or different about one group or another. You can overlay the recorded voices telling their stories, create summary models that visualize how your consumer guests see their experiences. The more immersive and experiential - and tapping into different learning modalities (visual, auditory and kinesthetic) the more your organization will be able to take in the knowledge.
And don't forget to have them Act on the information - have some conversation as a team or organization about what implications there might be for your business based on what they are seeing and hearing. "So what about that? - what should we do? and create a clear plan of action and next steps.
Monday, February 25, 2008
Suggestions from the Field
From Susannah
We sent the following note out a few weeks ago to the most recent Training Class and received back some wonderful stories and ideas. With their permission, I am posting a few ideas here in our blog for everyone to see and share. We encourage you to try these things (and make up your own) and are honored when you share with us.
Just a quick check in to see how you all are doing. It's been about a month since we were together for your Fundamentals of LearningConnect training and I'm curious to know if you've had a chance to apply your learning and try some templates out - or go through the full process with your business teams (or perhaps have had some personal applications in your life outside of work)!
As we mentioned in the training, we are available to you for advice on design, thinking with you about your challenges - or just keeping connected. We'd love to hear from you and let us know if we can be of service.
So without any more delay... please, try this at home (or work):
Using templates, Agendas and Making Meetings ColorFull (yes, it was submitted in color)
"I had a fabulous time in the training!!
Since the training, I have not had the chance to do Learning Connects, but have used several items in my team meetings: the fabulous colorful agenda & fun pens. I love creating the colorful agenda. I’m on a team with 8 guys. Since I’ve started using it, I’ve noticed that when they enter the meeting room, they smile at my agenda (because of the pictures & colorfulness). My guys don’t acknowledge that they liked my colorful agenda but keep referring to it during the meeting (This is truly helpful). Plus, if I don’t check off something quickly, then they do it for me (success!!). They may never consciously acknowledge it and at times have said that my agendas could be seen “as non-value added work.” Once I talked with them about the unconscious benefits of the agenda & colorful pens, they have never mentioned it again.
Several weeks ago, I picked up some fabulous pens with some wild ink colors. Before the mtgs, I plop them on the table. The guys use my pens, even if they brought their own pen. Success!
With these small changes, I have seen a difference in the team meeting environment. Thanks!!! "
Using template for Management Conversations / Reviews
"I LOVE the templates – unfortunately I have not been able to apply them to consumer research yet. I am planning on doing a data gathering session pretty soon (hopefully within the next two months), but I’m still in the process of getting my proposal approved.
I have, however, used the templates for my team meetings (to check the progress update of our initiative) I’m using the Grove – Graphic Roadmap template right now and just last week I had a 1-1 with my 2 up manager and used the ‘Tell me a Story’(it was about me – as an introduction) template and the ‘ top of the mountain’ (which I used to help communicate where do I want to go in my career) to help me guide my discussion….. It was GREAT – she asked me to keep them and told me it was one of the best 1-1’s she had had in her 20+ years in the Company."
So we still hope you'll have lots of chances to facilitate a full LearningConnect session, and in addition, try these great ideas to use templates and your facilitative selves in many situations! Keep up the great work.
We sent the following note out a few weeks ago to the most recent Training Class and received back some wonderful stories and ideas. With their permission, I am posting a few ideas here in our blog for everyone to see and share. We encourage you to try these things (and make up your own) and are honored when you share with us.
Just a quick check in to see how you all are doing. It's been about a month since we were together for your Fundamentals of LearningConnect training and I'm curious to know if you've had a chance to apply your learning and try some templates out - or go through the full process with your business teams (or perhaps have had some personal applications in your life outside of work)!
As we mentioned in the training, we are available to you for advice on design, thinking with you about your challenges - or just keeping connected. We'd love to hear from you and let us know if we can be of service.
So without any more delay... please, try this at home (or work):
Using templates, Agendas and Making Meetings ColorFull (yes, it was submitted in color)
"I had a fabulous time in the training!!
Since the training, I have not had the chance to do Learning Connects, but have used several items in my team meetings: the fabulous colorful agenda & fun pens. I love creating the colorful agenda. I’m on a team with 8 guys. Since I’ve started using it, I’ve noticed that when they enter the meeting room, they smile at my agenda (because of the pictures & colorfulness). My guys don’t acknowledge that they liked my colorful agenda but keep referring to it during the meeting (This is truly helpful). Plus, if I don’t check off something quickly, then they do it for me (success!!). They may never consciously acknowledge it and at times have said that my agendas could be seen “as non-value added work.” Once I talked with them about the unconscious benefits of the agenda & colorful pens, they have never mentioned it again.
Several weeks ago, I picked up some fabulous pens with some wild ink colors. Before the mtgs, I plop them on the table. The guys use my pens, even if they brought their own pen. Success!
With these small changes, I have seen a difference in the team meeting environment. Thanks!!! "
Using template for Management Conversations / Reviews
"I LOVE the templates – unfortunately I have not been able to apply them to consumer research yet. I am planning on doing a data gathering session pretty soon (hopefully within the next two months), but I’m still in the process of getting my proposal approved.
I have, however, used the templates for my team meetings (to check the progress update of our initiative) I’m using the Grove – Graphic Roadmap template right now and just last week I had a 1-1 with my 2 up manager and used the ‘Tell me a Story’(it was about me – as an introduction) template and the ‘ top of the mountain’ (which I used to help communicate where do I want to go in my career) to help me guide my discussion….. It was GREAT – she asked me to keep them and told me it was one of the best 1-1’s she had had in her 20+ years in the Company."
So we still hope you'll have lots of chances to facilitate a full LearningConnect session, and in addition, try these great ideas to use templates and your facilitative selves in many situations! Keep up the great work.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Foam Core -- We're Obsessed!
From Lynette =)
You know from time to time we do get excited about seemingly strange things here at Ah Ha! The latest? We just love foam core -- 40" by 60" foam core to be more specific (we like the 3/8th inch although it is also available in 1/2 inch).
We've found these thin white boards to be magnificent tools in our facilitation of LearningConnect sessions. The 40" by 60" size is perfect for our wall sized templates and with the assistance of a flipchart or even an easel, we can work effectively in rooms that have less than wonderful wall space. And, WOW! these foam core walls have 2 useable sides!!
Remember, an important element of grounded facilitation is taking care of the Operational physical details. Sometimes all the stuff required for LearningConnect even overwhelms me! So recently we've prepped our very portable, very light, yet surprisingly strong "walls" well before DataCollection sessions. This allows us to be more relaxed and attentive to facilitating and being with the team and workshop guests.
When we travel we arrange for a local art supply store to deliver 10 or so boards directly to the facility, conference center or hotel where we're working. When we arrive our foam core boards are waiting for us to get to work. It doesn't get better than that =)
You know from time to time we do get excited about seemingly strange things here at Ah Ha! The latest? We just love foam core -- 40" by 60" foam core to be more specific (we like the 3/8th inch although it is also available in 1/2 inch).
We've found these thin white boards to be magnificent tools in our facilitation of LearningConnect sessions. The 40" by 60" size is perfect for our wall sized templates and with the assistance of a flipchart or even an easel, we can work effectively in rooms that have less than wonderful wall space. And, WOW! these foam core walls have 2 useable sides!!
Remember, an important element of grounded facilitation is taking care of the Operational physical details. Sometimes all the stuff required for LearningConnect even overwhelms me! So recently we've prepped our very portable, very light, yet surprisingly strong "walls" well before DataCollection sessions. This allows us to be more relaxed and attentive to facilitating and being with the team and workshop guests.
When we travel we arrange for a local art supply store to deliver 10 or so boards directly to the facility, conference center or hotel where we're working. When we arrive our foam core boards are waiting for us to get to work. It doesn't get better than that =)
Saturday, February 2, 2008
LearningConnect Facilitation Principles
From Lynette =)
A starting list of Principles offered for your Consideration ,,,
Begin with and Keep Your Outcomes in Mind -- Throughout the entire LearningConnect Process, everyday, as a team, revisit your Outcomes. Design the flow of the Data Collection, the Analysis, and the Building of Deliverables in order to reach your Outcomes.
Focus on What Matters -- Always begin with a Team StartUp in order to clarify Project Deliverables and to help team members build personal connection to Project Objectives. Never just jump into Data Collection.
Honor and Respect Yourself and Others -- treat yourself, fellow team members, guests (respondents), suppliers with respect, honoring everyone's contribution to the process. Create space to be aware of and to fully appreciate Everyone's Unique Talents and Abilities.
All Team Members are Involved in Active Learning from the Beginning No passive "involvement" here. Sleeves are rolled up and everyone digs in. Begin with preplay activities to encourage personal awareness building and connection to the topic. Design a StartUp activity to enroll each individual and build toward shared investment and commitment to the Outcomes. In the end, everyone is energized and worked out!!
Take Time to Reflect on Your Experiences -- both personally (we love journaling and storytelling) and collectively as a team (through conversation). This really enhances the integration of emerging learnings and insights.
Work in Pairs (or Triads) -- Particularly in Data Collection, Analysis & Synthesis, and Sharing & Building two (or more) Heads ARE really better than one and allow for different ideas and perspectives to be considered.
Remember, It is all about the Conversation -- During the team work sessions (StartUp, Work Out, Analysis, Sharing & Building) create activities that encourage team members to think together. During Data Collection with your Guests remember, it's not an interview, no direct questions! It is about the conversation they are having with each other around the topics you have presented.
A starting list of Principles offered for your Consideration ,,,
Begin with and Keep Your Outcomes in Mind -- Throughout the entire LearningConnect Process, everyday, as a team, revisit your Outcomes. Design the flow of the Data Collection, the Analysis, and the Building of Deliverables in order to reach your Outcomes.
Focus on What Matters -- Always begin with a Team StartUp in order to clarify Project Deliverables and to help team members build personal connection to Project Objectives. Never just jump into Data Collection.
Honor and Respect Yourself and Others -- treat yourself, fellow team members, guests (respondents), suppliers with respect, honoring everyone's contribution to the process. Create space to be aware of and to fully appreciate Everyone's Unique Talents and Abilities.
All Team Members are Involved in Active Learning from the Beginning No passive "involvement" here. Sleeves are rolled up and everyone digs in. Begin with preplay activities to encourage personal awareness building and connection to the topic. Design a StartUp activity to enroll each individual and build toward shared investment and commitment to the Outcomes. In the end, everyone is energized and worked out!!
Take Time to Reflect on Your Experiences -- both personally (we love journaling and storytelling) and collectively as a team (through conversation). This really enhances the integration of emerging learnings and insights.
Work in Pairs (or Triads) -- Particularly in Data Collection, Analysis & Synthesis, and Sharing & Building two (or more) Heads ARE really better than one and allow for different ideas and perspectives to be considered.
Remember, It is all about the Conversation -- During the team work sessions (StartUp, Work Out, Analysis, Sharing & Building) create activities that encourage team members to think together. During Data Collection with your Guests remember, it's not an interview, no direct questions! It is about the conversation they are having with each other around the topics you have presented.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Facilitator -- Facilitative -- Which are YOU?
from Lynette =)
At our most recent training, as usual the question of how one can Facilitate and Participate throughout the LearningConnect process was asked.
We offer this very gentle reframing of the situation from which this question emerges -- how might I be facilitative in whatever role I am currently choosing? By shifting my awareness and attention from being only the Facilitator to being facilitative allows for many more possibilities.
We are not suggesting clearly defined roles are unimportant -- in fact, the more clearly defined your role is at any given point in the process, the better the process flows. You may choose to be a facilitative Team Leader, or a facilitative Team Member, and there are times when the team and the process will require a Facilitator. Remember, awareness and attention to what you are choosing and clearly communicating to your team will allow you to flex appropriately.
At our most recent training, as usual the question of how one can Facilitate and Participate throughout the LearningConnect process was asked.
We offer this very gentle reframing of the situation from which this question emerges -- how might I be facilitative in whatever role I am currently choosing? By shifting my awareness and attention from being only the Facilitator to being facilitative allows for many more possibilities.
We are not suggesting clearly defined roles are unimportant -- in fact, the more clearly defined your role is at any given point in the process, the better the process flows. You may choose to be a facilitative Team Leader, or a facilitative Team Member, and there are times when the team and the process will require a Facilitator. Remember, awareness and attention to what you are choosing and clearly communicating to your team will allow you to flex appropriately.
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