Module 2: Targeting on the Fewest Most Essential

Module II: Paradox & Problems

Paradox is normally defined as holding contradictory situations at the same time. In the Team Purpose to Performance Process, the paradox process adds one critical element – emotion. Most planning processes use two-dimensional approaches like SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats). While these components are helpful in the planning process, they are also limiting.

 When we engage in exploring a range of emotions related to outcomes, we access critical subtleties that otherwise are overlooked, ignored, or that blindside us later on. Integrating feelings into the planning process in this way generates better results.

1. Revisit highlights from Module 1.
2. Analyze insights that have surfaced since last session in relation to purpose statement draft.
3. Review and align on (revised) purpose statement.
4. Using the purpose statement and interview data, determine key strategic themes (via paradoxes) to address to help focus on greatest impact work.
5. Understand and align on what we are trying to solve for (what opportunities and / or challenges) and draft a problem statement with outcomes.
6. Start populating the draft game plan with swim lanes of outcomes and high-level milestones for the next 12 months and beyond.

Module 2 focuses on paradoxes and problems: 

• Agree on the paradoxes and problems we must address as an LT
• Clearly define the problem we are really trying to solve
• Agree on the outcomes and key milestones required to address the paradoxes
• Compile into a game plan