Case study three: facilitation

An extensive programme of leadership and practice development with a large medical practice.

Following exploratory discussions with the partners and practice manager I produced a report outlining common themes and proposing a programme of development activity. This was agreed with the partners and measurable objectives were established.

Over the course of several months I observed and provided feedback on partners’ meetings, supported individuals with one-to-one coaching sessions and delivered targeted training sessions on collaborative working, conflict styles and negotiation skills. I also facilitated a refresher session on Myers-Briggs personality types.

Observation of the partners’ meetings prompted a review of the structure of the meetings and the introduction of Nancy Kline’s Thinking Environment® model. This resulted in shorter, more effective meetings with greater awareness of the different personality types and more respectful communication.

I also facilitated negotiations between the partners which involved considering non-negotiable areas, brainstorming ideas to generate options and applying Edward de Bono’s Six Thinking Hats approach to assist with decision-making.

Throughout the engagement we regularly reviewed progress and remained flexible about timeframes and how best to work together to meet the objectives set.