The focus of these work sessions is to improve specific skills such as team building, conflict resolution, valuing diversity and communication. Building interpersonal skills and surfacing problems that block effective group dynamics can dramatically improve the overall productivity of the group. Other group-directed facilitation would include interventions designed to build leadership and coaching capabilities within the group, and facilitated discussions that encourage critical thinking and exploration of ideas so that all assumptions can get out on the table and learning can take place. These techniques build the capacity to have meaningful dialogues that can lay the groundwork for planning and supporting change in the future. The Bottom Line When planned for and used effectively, facilitated work sessions will lower costs through compressed time frames, increase collaboration and deliver richer, more complete products with higher levels of individual commitment and group synergy.
Facilitators can provide the edge that the group needs to get the job done.