Organizational Performance Isn't What You Think

When to use Organizational Performance Isn't What You Think

Use this method when your organization is struggling to achieve its goals or when there is disagreement about how to measure success. It's helpful for aligning teams around a shared understanding of organizational performance.

What it solves

Conflicting priorities and misaligned efforts leading to poor organizational performance.

How to run Organizational Performance Isn't What You Think, step by step

1. Ask participants to individually define what organizational performance means to them. (10 min)
2. Share and discuss the different definitions. (15 min)
3. Identify any conflicting priorities or assumptions. (15 min)
4. Develop a shared definition of organizational performance that reflects the organization's goals and values. (10 min)
5. Identify key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure progress. (10 min)

Materials needed

• Whiteboard or flip chart
• Markers or pens
• Sticky notes (optional)

Facilitator tips

• Encourage participants to share their perspectives openly and honestly.
• Focus on creating a shared understanding of organizational performance, rather than imposing a single definition.

Common pitfalls

• Participants may be reluctant to challenge existing assumptions about organizational performance. Create a safe and supportive environment for open discussion.
• The discussion may become too abstract or theoretical. Focus on practical applications and real-world scenarios.

Variations

• Conduct a survey to assess employees' perceptions of organizational performance.
• Use a balanced scorecard framework to identify key performance indicators.

Running it online or hybrid

Use a virtual whiteboard to capture and organize different perspectives on organizational performance.

What it produces

A shared definition of organizational performance and a list of key performance indicators (KPIs).

Origin

Based on research into the factors that influence organizational performance — source

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