VISUALISATION

Challenge & Selection:

The first tool I used was the tool of Visualization, or Visual Thinking, 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 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 between elements to consider when identifying pain  points and opportunities for improvements or solutions.

Application:

I start the process by creating a graphic of the problem domain. To develop the  graphic, any existing material available is drawn to understand the environment. The  existing material may be operational or procedural documents, training materials,  marketing materials, other auditing reports. If materials are not available, then  informal interviews are conducted with of the stakeholders who serve as my main  points of contact on the initiative. The graphic is simple, using simple shapes and  icons available on the Internet. If it doesn’t work, then a different type of visual,  either based on a high-level process flow with swim lanes for different stakeholders  is created.

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 graphic that they can write on directly, or use sticky notes to make  comments. Then they are made to answer a few questions after which each group  gives out their reports. After the session, each group’s poster is digitized as an  artifact, creating a view that combines the shared and new insights from the group  discussion, and then create a revised graphic that incorporates their feedback and  proposed changes that they agreed to as a group.

Insight & 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.

