A global consortium of major companies in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries wanted to improve the ability of its members to collaborate and effectively manage conflict.  Distance between members, competing priorities, scarcity of time, structural issues and lack of clarity over roles and responsibilities were leading to conflict.

We were asked to design and deliver a program that would strengthen working relationships and increase the level of collaboration.  We based the program on the beliefs that people learn more effectively when they:

• Experience the concepts they want to learn, not just discuss them.
• Encounter a series of challenges that encourage them to practice what they want to learn.
• Reflect on their actions in ways that lead to increased competencies  

The results of the program are clearly reflected in the actual words of participants:

"This was better than anticipated and expectations were high.  I thought the re-defining of tasks and methods on the fly (based on each preceding challenge) was extremely good."

"I had a wonderful time and learned a lot about the group.  Your facilitation skills are great.  I believe the experiences we had doing the challenges will help us move forward at a more efficient and focused rate."

"Thanks!  The program exceeded my expectations.  I feel I got some insights into our group interaction that will help my work."

 "I really enjoyed the program. You truly facilitated, as opposed to telling us what it's all about.  I learned the 'hands-on' way of how to achieve collaboration, how to provide and accept leadership, and come up with innovative solutions.  GREAT JOB!!!"

"The feedback discussions after each challenge were most valuable."

"The process was well thought out and really got everyone to participate, even the reluctant ones.  I recommend this for the future."

"Very good set of challenges.  Don't know how this could have been better!"