First Things First

Relationships are everything to us, as we believe all good work moves at the speed of trust. We prioritize the collective capacities of teams, rather than those of individual leaders, with attention to the relational texture among and between individuals and groups. ​​We are guided by Peter Senge's "Fifth Discipline" approach to Compassionate Systems Change and David Cooperriders' Appreciative Inquiry as modes and methods for strengths based engagement that cultivate, foster, and harness the conditions for durable success. Perhaps our most important strength as a partner is our curiosity.

Our general process can take many shapes depending on the nature of an engagement or partnership, but roughly follows these four phases:

1 // Begin with relationships

We begin with relationships and we endeavor to be in "right relationship" with all those whom we work with, because all work is relational and the people who do the work have plenty of wisdom and illuminating wonders. We take care to understand both the individual and organizational context for relationships, internally and externally. We build our own authentic relationships through our early engagement.

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2 // Listen to the data

We appreciate context and complexity, and are always searching for the "signal in the noise." With a sense for the relational texture, we aim to develop or engage with data that shapes a fuller picture. We love deep dives into existing materials, and creating new data. We are not statisticians or data scientists, we not researchers seeking establish truths. Rather, we shine the light of inquiry to increase knowledge and context that facilitates action.

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3 // Focus on solutions

With relationships tended to and data in hand, we move to identify solutions. This can include designing new programs, assembling a strategic plan, creating a beneficiary listening campaign, engaging in board development, and many other forms. Whatever the shape of the result, we move to action. We use generative and interactive processes to find creative solutions, with an eye toward feasibility and viability. And we are comfortable with the solution being the provision of ongoing support for crucial efforts and projects.

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4 // Collaborate to get things done

Finally, with a clear sense for context and a defined purpose, we collaborate to get things done, always remaining respectful of capabilities and capacities of each unique group with which we partner. ​