When this occurs, problems must be clearly defined, and individuals and organizations must organize their approach to joint problem-solving. Creative ideas are best developed within an atmosphere of trust. Trust is built through listening, honesty, and demonstration of follow-through on commitments. In doing so, trust is developed, and individuals and organizations more easily work together to develop new approaches or creative ideas. We've tried mission statements and retreats with little success.
Mission statements help group's of people clarify their purpose for working together.
Retreats often afford individuals the opportunity to get to know one another on a more personal level and to develop new ideas or plans. Both are important and helpful. However, it is essential that individuals subsequently modify behavior, work processes, or plans to reflect the mission statement or to integrate insights and creative ideas gained from retreats. Using collaborative decision-making, individuals from DOE, the regulatory agencies, and DOE's contractors work together in a workshop to develop a charter and goals. These individuals also agree that these organizations will work together cooperatively to carry out the charter and achieve these goals.