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Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to describe facilitating a whole system transformation process using virtual meetings instead of traditional in person workshops. Stakeholders participated in collaborative strategic planning utilizing phone conferencing technology. This paper outlines the adaptation of a large scale OD approach called Whole Scale Change. We introduce a design protocol that can adapt the traditional dialogic process to a virtual online environment using conference call technology. We describe the activities, context for effectively facilitating traditionally in-person activities in an online environment, and the blending of digital tools for the virtual environment.
Introduction & Current State
The technology deluge of the 21st century is becoming an innovation disruptor for many organizations. The emergence of the internet, availability of broadband access, and the ability to self organize allows ideas large and small to achieve a critical mass and create a global presence for their organization. One area where OD practitioners can strategically utilize disruptive innovation is in facilitating virtual large group dialogue. Using a whole system collaborative framework, organizational leaders can build a shared organizational strategy using conference call technology.
Leaders are willing to discuss options that will allow for seamless facilitation of disparate stakeholders. The question they ask is, "how can we collaboratively engage a large number of employees or members of our system in an efficient manner?" They further ask, "how can we do it with important and complex strategic issues?" We present a case study describing the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and specifically MaestroConference to adapt traditional large group interventions in order to connect a group of stakeholders through a virtual strategic planning process. The intent of the paper is to demonstrate the potential for using conference call technology in creating collaborative spaces where organizations can foster productive dynamic conversations with large groups of participants.
Whole System Collaborative Change
Whole System Collaborative Change (WSCC) is a practice where a facilitator or leader takes a large group of people through a change journey using dialogic methods. In their book The Change Handbook, Cady, Holman and Devane affirm that this approach typically results in an atmosphere of high engagement bringing the whole system together to co-create their own future (Cady, Holman, & Devane 2007). Collaborative or dialogic methods...