Discovery Process.

Using a disciplined discovery process, we help clients answer the questions Who are we? What do we do? Why does it matter? These are critical components of a brand promise and the framework for creating positive experiences at every touchpoint.

Discovery begins with an assessment, a reality check.
This step cannot be overlooked no matter the size of the challenge faced. It forces an organization to determine what they know, what they think they know and what they don’t know. Decisions can then be made based on rational thought processes. In some cases, an assessment supports existing perceptions. More often traditional practices or positions are challenged and very often “aha’s” occur.

Using specific diagnostic tools, the discovery assessment studies internal components of the organization. For example, historical data is collected; the mission, vision and positioning statement are examined; business plans, strategic plans, project plans are collected. Conversations are held with key internal constituent groups such as staff, volunteers and, where appropriate, clients of the organization. The assessment process also steps outside the cocoon and comfort of the organization to collect information from external sources. This may include market research and competitive analysis; focus group sessions and surveys; and external conversations with an emphasis on determining perception versus reality in the market. Assessment is scalable and used appropriately to the scope of the project

Discovery continues to information diagnosis.
The assessment phase of the process is complete and data has been amassed. However it is just information until the next step of discovery, information diagnosis, is applied. This portion of the process is methodical, objective and quantifiable. The goal of information diagnosis is to define the “health” of an organization. Where is it strong and why? What challenges does it face? How have those challenges been met? Is it capable of sustainability? Where have missteps occurred and why? How are benchmarks set and are they realistic?

The information diagnosis provides a framework for moving forward. Outcome expectations are now realistic and measurable.

Discovery answers the question.
Through the discovery process the promise of the organization has been clarified and focused. We can now effectively answer the original question. “How can we grow membership? Do we need a capital campaign? We’re a brand new organization, where do we go from here?”

The answers will be clear, even obvious, because discovery has revealed the brand of your organization – a promise wrapped in an experience.