In 1985, I created a structured facilitation technique - FAST - that provided students with the ability to be flexible, yet provide effective structure. I struggled with describing "how to" seamlessly tie together the workshop process while managing the group dynamics. So,
In 2007, I created FoCuSeD™ Holistic Structured Facilitator Training - Facilitation of Collaborative useful Solutions embracing Diversity - from an epiphany I had at the 2007 IAF North America Conference in Portland, OR. The epiphany came at a session given by Sam Kaner, PhD., where he was talking about how groups behave while reaching consensus – they diverge, struggle, and then converge – thank you Sam. I now understood “how to” seamlessly plan and integrate the workshop process with the emotional group cycle by introducing proper exercises depending on the needs of the group along with “why”.
I was able to tie together people skills and process skills in one holistic process. As a result, I completely rewrote my Facilitator training materials around this unique holistic process, added more people skills, specific tools tied to processes, processes covering everything from Strategic Planning and Analysis through Design and Problem-solving, in business and in life, and broadened the class materials beyond IT projects. I added detailed descriptions of the IAF Core Facilitator Competencies and cover them extensively so that anyone who wishes to pursue an IAF Certified™ Professional Facilitator (CPF) designation will have the necessary skills.
"The only meaningful certification is when competencies are assessed and conferred by a recognized, independent industry association such as the International Association of Facilitators (IAF)."
FoCuSeD™ is the answer I was looking for - the what; now I had the “why”, the “how”, and the “what”.
FoCuSeD™ Facilitator training is a far more complete, comprehensive, and effective structured facilitation technique than any other facilitation technique available. It gives you:
- A unique holistic structured facilitation process – FoCuSeD™ Holistic Structured Facilitation Process Design – a critical holistic process that enables you to seamlessly integrate the workshop process to build a product parallel to the emotional group cycle.
- Guidance when selecting and using thought processes.
- Guidance on “how to” and why use specific People and Process tools.
- Helpful virtual workshop guidelines.
- Detailed descriptions of the IAF Core Facilitator Competencies and "how to" achieve them.
- Detailed history of facilitation to help build clear context and foundation.
- Orientation towards all aspects of business and life.
JAD was enhanced by FAST. FAST was revolutionized by FoCuSeD™ - continuous innovation makes for better solutions.