Identify areas of potential

Present areas of potential

After formulating several questions that point us in the direction of an appropriate solution, we illustrate what development opportunities this presents.

By describing areas of potential, we are summarizing the relevant interim outcomes of this phase, as well as revealing untapped opportunities and possible risks relating to the issue. Based on the Area-of-Potential Profile, it is possible to derive concrete recommendations as well as measures that can be implemented right away. In turn, this allows our organization to invest energy and resources in solutions that have a positive impact, not only for key actors but also for the organization itself.

The presentation of the interim outcomes from the phases of exploration and discovery is an important milestone in the overall process. In doing this, we are aware we may be presenting outcomes that are outside the familiar framework of thought and action.

After the presentation, our players, allies, partners, colleagues, and managers will tell us about how they feel about our venture and what, if anything, they can contribute to its further development. We take their feedback on board with a sense of curiosity and condense it into suggestions that we consider in the course of further development.

Checklist: Presentation

The presentation of interim outcomes is successful if we:

provide a brief, visual overview of the stages of our venture so far

show transparently how we arrived at the recommendations and immediate measures

use photos, quotes, or workshop materials to tell a simple story that goes beyond a project report

report on human encounters, as well as sharing insights and surprises

demonstrate public, organizational, and personal value-adds so as to encourage supervisors to give us their support

give allies, partners and staff the opportunity to discuss our work and give feedback, e.g. using the Feedback Matrix or the Five Finger Feedback method

are able to understand why something meets with a positive response or possibly reticence

support social interaction and networking among attendees before and after the presentation, e.g. by means of Topic-Based Networking

show appreciation of our work as a team and celebrate what has been created through cooperation and perseverance

Potential Profile

Method
Potential Profile

What is it and what purpose does it serve?

Areas of potential show as yet unexploited opportunities for the development of innovative solutions. Based on the outcomes to date, areas of potential are created that guide us towards recommendations and measures that can be implemented right away.

Added value

By describing areas of potential, we conclude our field investigation in an evidence-based manner. The depth, interest, and richness in the insights developed are engagingly conveyed in summarized form. The compilation of diverse knowledge allows the core team to make a strong case for outcomes based on encounters with key actors.

Time frame

30 – 60 minutes

Level

Simple – Medium

Materials

Interim results from the entire phase, pens, sticky notes, possibly computer with presentation program

Roles

Documentation, time management

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Areas of potential may include changes in direction that still need to be communicated: after all, no selection has been made yet. The censorship or non-communication of important areas of potential is unacceptable, e.g. due to political developments or internal power struggles.

Potential Profile

Work sheet

30 – 60 minutes

PDF template

Procedure

1. Have previous interim outcomes and material ready. Use the template as a structure for creating presentation slides.

2. Start from the HCW questions. Sift through all of them and group similar questions. Use one profile per group. Enter appropriate HCW questions as a starting point.

3. What are the insights and data on which the HCW questions are based? Enter the most striking aspects in terms of desirable states, hindering factors, and associated evidence. If useful principles have been identified, note these down as well.

4. Review previous profile entries for topic priorities, specific problems, and promising options. Briefly describe the topic, problem, and option in context. Come up with a catchy working title; use metaphors and visual language for support. Number the area of potential.

5. Finally, consider what concrete recommendations result from this, as well as measures that can be implemented right away. Use the Development Matrix for support.

6. In order to process more HCW questions, repeat steps 2 to 5.

7. Prepare presentation in an appealing way that is tailored to the target group. Look at all of the potential profiles and consider what might generate the most interest. Start with this.