WHAT TO EXPECT
Build Session Guidance
Thank you for participating in a Build Session with Fourth Economy. Below you will find a brief description of what to expect and guidelines for discussion.
What is a Build Session?
A Build Session is an interactive workshop designed to brainstorm, prioritize, and build solutions. Some refer to sessions like these as “working sessions” or “focus groups.” We call them Build Sessions to emphasize the focus on moving past talking about opportunities or issues and toward building actions. Through this process, we engage stakeholders who know the issues best and are likely to be involved in implementation. This is key to developing realistic actions and gaining buy-in from key stakeholders.
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Keys to Success
GENERATE IDEAS
There’s no such thing as a bad idea. Everyone has good ideas, and we value your input. When generating ideas use a framework of “Yes… and.”
INVOLVE EVERYONE
Make sure everyone is able to participate. Acknowledge communication differences and be respectful about sharing the “floor.” “Step up/step back”
BE PRESENT
Minimize other distractions. We know it’s hard! Please turn off your phone or ignore alerts. Phone off.
RECORD YOUR IDEAS & BE SPECIFIC
Use the brainstorming time to record your ideas on post-its, in your own words. Avoid generalizations – be specific.
“If it’s not written down, it didn’t happen.”