Approach – Principles in Action
Approach
Collaboration
The partnership between consultant and client is paramount in addressing complex change needs. Tailored solutions emerge from the combination of the client’s expertise and knowledge of the organization and the consultant’s knowledge of design and dynamics of human and organizational systems. We work with clients to clarify aspirations and implement plans by asking tough questions, offering options for action, sharing the pros and cons of any approaches, engaging in creative design, and encouraging an attitude of experimentation and discovery.
Goals Aligned with Purposeful Action
Be the change you wish to see in the world said Ghandi. Rather than wait for change to come after the consultation, we identify actions to demonstrate immediate and ultimate goals here and now. We approach projects as opportunities for people to test and hone new practices and embed new behaviors as part of the change process.
Commitment to Social Justice
Our clients work for justice and equity and we achieve our justice goals by contributing to their improved functioning. We strengthen them by building authentic participation, and critical thinking into the process of change.
Informed Action
Action and ideas inform each other. Drawing on the principles of participatory action research, we support clients to implement ideas and practices and critically analyze the results. We introduce theory to guide action and use action to build knowledge about what works, why, and how, and thereby support learning for the client and the larger community.
Practical and Creative
We always ask, does it work in this case? If an established approach will work, we use it. If not, we invent to fit specific needs. We are accountable and we have fun.
Learning and Capacity Building
More than addressing an immediate challenge or opportunity, we believe in individual and group learning and strengthened capacity. By building learning and documentation of learning into the process, by engaging in regular cycles of planning, acting, and reflecting, and by supporting clients in defining their issues and solutions themselves, people “learn how to fish” and can teach others.
Systems Thinking
Generosity
We believe in abundance created by sharing resources, whether ideas, time, or materials. There is enough to go around if we don’t hoard what we have access to. We strive to connect people and organizations to each other and the ideas and resources that will support the changes they seek.