Publications from ODSW Social Insights: Letters by DSW (Vol 2) | Page 83
Practice Issues
on the appropriate individuals converging on a possible solution derived
from their discussions, viewpoints and contributions. These individuals may
include change agents and anyone who is in a position to help contribute
to forming the solution. Determining who should be at the table to create
positive change is an important consideration. While the temptation is to
be highly inclusive, the gatherings can become too large to be productive.
Thus, composing the members for the gathering is an important step.
Furthermore, having members own the solution that comes out of such
gatherings plays an important part in nudging improvements.
4. Committing to a shared measurement
One of the challenges of community groups working on improving
coordination on the ground is coming to a clear shared measurement of
what it is that all involved understand and will commit to. What does good
coordination look like when the processes or systems are put in place? It
may be difficult to agree and commit to a shared measurement but it is
worth aiming for it as it will accelerate the process of achieving the goal.
Having a shared measurement means that each partner will track the progress
made in the same way instead of focusing on organisational measures. The
shared measure will hopefully be a more holistic one which will incorporate
a common understanding that people do not make decisions solely based
on data but also on values.
5. Mutually reinforcing activities
When there is a common goal that is supported by a clear strategy and
a commitment to a shared measurement, there is a clear direction and
each partner can then carry out mutually reinforcing activities. This focuses
resources on activities that contribute to the outcome.
In some instances, the mutually reinforcing activities on the ground may mean
re-defining roles and responsibilities, re-directing energy and influencing
and re-evaluating contribution. These are not easy shifts and adjustments to
make but they are necessary for collaboration and developing partnership.
6. Keeping open channels for communication
Strategies often lack follow up or underachieve because of unclear
leadership and communication. It is therefore useful to structure channels
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