At the Oregon State University Challenge Course, trained instructors help teams develop scenarios that simulate their real life challenges. Next they may challenge themselves to repeat their process, designing a strategy to allow them to do the task faster and more efficiently. Each member carries something of this safe and fun experience back to the work environment. The trust and understanding that develops on the course can then live in the goals of the group. Reflection on their course work excites and challenges the team to perform better in existing or new projects.
Participants clearly see their team in a new and productive way.
Focusing through experiential opportunities on important organizational, team and individual goals naturally fosters growth and productivity as it enlivens the individuals to get outside their comfort areas and excel. The Challenge Course was a great experience for my team. When it is used appropriately in conjunction with other change tools it can catalyze a team. I have used Challenge Courses as a part of organizational change processes in Fortune 100 companies and in small businesses for 15 years and will continue to do so. This is proof that learning and change can be fun.