Communication is key

Having a clear vision for an organization is extremely important.  However, being clear on the organization’s values, purpose, and goals are equally as important.

In our meetings with Gary, we quickly figured out that he wanted us to help him better communicate with other organizations in order to have a unified approach to sustainability.  We met with Reggie, Tim, and Kathy individually.  Each one is over another organization that has ties to Gary’s organization.

Out of the individual meetings, we found that the answers to our questions were pretty much the same… in the most basic form of the issue, everyone wanted better communication.

Based on Senge’s Strategies for Building Shared Vision,* we came up with a plan to help the organizations prioritize working together and to understand what direction they are headed toward by working together.

VISION – an image of desired future

This includes better communication between the organizations regarding sustainable practices.  This can be achieved through routine meetings.

VALUES – how we expect to travel to where we want to go

There needs to be an open dialogue between the organizations about problems.  A supportive group effort is necessary in eliminating fragmentation and disunity.  Communicating should bring the organizations together; therefore, each individual must consider the others and be supportive of an open, honest dialogue.

PURPOSE – what the organization is here to do

The organizations have come together to work together, break boundaries, and develop a dialogue that revolves around sustainability practices and what it takes to make Clemson a premiere sustainable campus.

GOALS – milestones we expect to reach before too long

At times, communication can be stagnant.  The organizations must remember to prioritize their bond in order to commit to fostering efficient sustainability.

These attainable values/purpose/vision/goals will help Gary and his organization work with the other organizations in furthering Clemson’s sustainability efforts. 

Communication is key!

 

 

 

 

 

ashton

 

 

 

*Shared Vision can be found in The Fifth Discipline Fieldbook