In a word - Research
Sounds simple - right? Unfortunately, everything that claims to be research - isn't. Read Tim Springer's TFM column on the state of workplace research to understand what we mean. [click here].
Research requires us to do several things. Among the most important are to avoid assumptions, continually ask good questions, and to stay abreast of the "body of knowledge". We're serious about the pursuit of information, collection and analysis of data and interpretation into practical solutions. We believe in the maxim: to get the right answers, you have to know how to ask the right questions.
How do we work?
As trained researchers and experienced consultants our process centers on the collection critical information from a variety of sources. We engage users at all levels of a client organization. We ask questions - lots of questions - and listen carefully. We use tools, like executive framework interviews, focus group discussions and direct observation supplemented by digital images. On occasion we've invented new tools to collect important information. We're always searching for new and better ways to streamline and improve our process.
Back in our offices we research industry trends and best-in-class ideas as we develop business cases and cost justifications for our clients' specific requirements. When we make a recommendation, it's based on sound empirical, client-based information.
Throughout the entire process we communicate - we solicit input and provide feedback; we talk, we listen, we present, we test and retest. We rely on the flow of information - both to and from us - to inform the process, establish expectations, manage change and insure success.
