A Strategic Conversation is an informal, but structured, discussion on a strategic policy issue that results in a clearer understanding of that issue or issues. A Strategic Conversation begins with an in-depth analysis of the situation or issue under discussion. This is presented in both a background paper and, briefly, at the Conversation session.
Participants then form groups to discuss structured questions.
They reconvene to hear the groups report out. The ideas generated are forwarded to all members of the organization and become part of the official minutes of the governing board of the organization. A Strategic Conversation helps an organization or board thoughtfully examine why it is making the policy decisions it makes, while connecting and involving all players affected by those decisions in a positive and meaningful way. As a result, the organization or board is better equipped to anticipate challenges and develop successful strategies on policy issues. Finally, since everyone has been involved in this thoughtful process of discussion, subsequent board decisions will be received with a greater degree of support.