While training focuses on learning, skill development and improving or changing performance, facilitation supports teams by offering tools, providing objective feedback and coordinating the process. Facilitation practices are grounded in the belief that the answers are in the room (meaning the participants have the answers), and it is the role of the facilitator to harvest the knowledge and perspectives of those present. The goal is to create an environment in which the group can flourish with ideas freely shared, participants reaching mutual understanding and all taking responsibility for the eventual outcome.
Our facilitators engage diverse groups of human service professionals to support collaboration and share resources. Facilitation techniques are employed to creatively problem solve and establish buy in throughout the change process. Participants find it especially powerful in human service agencies when changes are made to better align the organization with the needs of the clients and the established mission.
Facilitation techniques are best deployed in the following scenarios:
- Establishing or revisiting the mission, vision and/or core values
- Leading meetings or group discussions
- Strategic planning
- Instituting cultural change
- Building or rebuilding teams
- Conflict resolution
- Large group facilitation
- Customer journey mapping
- Process improvement