How to Maximize Information Sharing

Excerpted from "Terms of Engagement: Changing The Way We Change Organizations"

Think about what you consider confidential or need-to-know information. Does it really need to be confidential or shared on a need-to-know basis or is this restriction just a way to maintain power?

Use multimedia and multiple channels of communication. Share information early and often.

Remember that communication is a two-way process.

Do not assume that because you say something it is heard or understood.

Provide opportunities for dialogue.

Spend one-third of the time in meetings sharing information, and two-thirds of the time discussing it.

During meetings and large group sessions, make all the information visible.

Use flip charts, easels, and large sheets of paper on the walls.

Keep all the information public and available so that everyone has easy access to it.

Prepare data packs of information so that everyone has the necessary background to participate on an equal footing.

If people need special training (in budgeting or other skills) to understand the information, provide it so that everyone in the room can operate on an equal footing.

Use processes such as walkthrus as information channels with the rest of the organization. The walkthru process provides the organization with a mechanism for sharing and receiving information. Supplement the process with written materials, videos, internal Web sites, and so on.

The Axelrod Group, 723 Laurel Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois 60091

Phone: 847.251.7361 Fax: 847.251.7370
General Inquiries: info@axelrodgroup.com

close window