Visualisation of Reflection

Challenge and Selection    The first tool which i used was the tool of visualisation, to achieve a shared understanding of a  problem space among a diverse group of stakeholders before attempting to identify and define  possible solutions to the problem. I use this approach often with our customers, who are  government agencies working to apply technology innovations to modernize their mission or the  delivery of their services to their customers.  I have used the technique of using a straw man visualization of a problem domain with a set of  questions or prompts for discussion to allow a diverse group of stakeholders to learn from each  other in the process of defining the scope, boundaries, key elements, and relationships etc.    Applications    I started the process by creating a straw man graphic of the problem domain. To develop the  straw man graphic, draw from any existing material available to understand the environment if  possible. The existing material may be operational or procedural documents, training materials,  marketing materials, GAO or other auditing reports. If materials are not available, then I conduct  informal interviews with one-three of the stakeholders who serve as my main points of contact  on the initiative.    For the activity, I will divide the stakeholders into groups of 5-6 participants each representing a  different organization or area of interest. Each group receives a poster-size copy of the straw man  graphic that they can write on directly, or use sticky notes to make comments. I give them  two-three questions to answer, such as: ​1)​ What key elements are missing from the graphic? ​2)  What would you change about the graphic to make it more accurately reflect your problem  space?​ 3)​ What key insights do you have about the relationships between the entities in your  problem space? I give them approximately 20 minutes to discuss the questions and mark up the  graphic    Insight and Approach    What I have learned from conducting this exercise with several groups is that while the graphic –  especially the revised graphic that incorporates their feedback – is important for reinforcing their  understanding of the problem they are working to solve, the more valuable aspect of the activity  is the shared insights and shared learning that occurs while they are working to define their  problem space. The graphic gives the diverse group of stakeholders a focal point for discussion  that allows them to share their perspectives and develop insights into potential root causes of  their problems.

