Why are large group interventions used?

Preparation by a cross-section of the system, preferably including parties from outside to the organisation

Preparation by a group of managers in consultation with the facilitator/adviser, or by the facilitator/adviser

Everybody�s truth is true. Learning from each other�s vision and perspective through dialogue. Differences are seen as enriching.

Discussion and debate are the main modes. There are right and wrong viewpoints. Differences are seen as a problem.

Change in the here and now

Participants talk about change

Everybody involved in the problem or issue is invited. There is a lot of knowledge and wisdom of the shop-floor.

Co-workers of the shop-floor are often not invited. Managers deal with strategic questions.

The (emotional) meaning of the issue is as important as its contents. Focus is on jointly giving meaning to a knowledge system with regard to its past, present and future and searching for a path to that future.

Focus is on the content of the issue, on problem solving and on drawing up plans that are to be implemented later by others.

A facilitator facilitates the conference and provides the conditions for efficient, effective and creative group work.

The conference is led by a powerful chairman, who can � consciously or unconsciously - control and dominate the process.

Learning from each other, developing a common knowledge system, is fruitful in itself and has an energising effect. Games and other interventions are used only to support the primary learning process.

Incentives, games and various kinds of trimmings are often used in order to ensure that the participants enjoy the conference, but distract from the primary learning process.

The conference is an integral part of a whole process, which is clear to everybody and based on various principles.

The conference is an isolated event. The main objective is �to have a good discussion� and to produce a list of intentions

At successful large group events, there is excitement in the air. A positive and compelling atmosphere motivates and connects participants long after the event itself.

Organisational development topics such as the cultural change of an organisation or the understanding of leadership in times of change demand inclusive processes with active participants who are called upon to co-create their business environment. Effective large group intervention techniques help to overcome barriers, create momentum and initiate change.

Large group interventions require different methods compared with small group workshops or meetings. Special formats are needed so that all participants are equally involved. This ensures as many participants as possible as within a large diverse group become productiveand create sustainable results in a short period of time.

When acting in an international context, intercultural aspects need to be taken into account. What do international participants expect? How are such events designed and delivered in their culture of origin? What needs do they have, for example in terms of communication style?

We offer large group moderation by professional speakers and facilitators in English and German, or in other languages upon request. We can also offer a bicultural or multicultural team of facilitators depending on your needs and the purpose of the event.

We are looking forward to advising you and to tailoring a large group intervention to your specific needs!

You can reach us via phone +49 (0)2227 908 6252 and email [email protected]. Or just use our contact form.

Open space or World Café, Future Lab, design thinking or panel discussion – let us find a suitable format for your large-scale business event

There are many factors which need to be taken into consideration when deciding on a suitable format for your large group facilitation. Among these are the purpose of the intervention, objectives, the organiser’s expectations, attitude and preference regarding methodological approach, target group, the context of intervention, group size, language and location, and many more.

Implementing the right format and methodology is important. However, a large group intervention will only be successful if participants open up, if the group becomes productive, if commonalities in the group become evident despite diversity, and if the common goal is clear and present throughout the entire event. Similarities as well as common goals become visible. Prioritising, discussing and preparing the implementation of group results are just some of the steps in an intervention’s process. Further objectives such as getting to know each other, having fun, the opportunity for informal exchange and networking should all have room, as they help to build team spirit.

Diversity at its best – The CultureWaves team

The CultureWaves team consists of more than 120 qualified consultants and facilitators of differing cultural backgrounds and with multiple years of international work experience.

Methodological approach

CultureWaves emphasizes the variety of methods applied. With decades of experience in designing and delivering customized training and workshops, CultureWaves has optimized the training and facilitation methods for your maximum benefit.

You also might be interested in:

• Consulting
• Leadership development
• Team building
• Conflict management
• Intercultural training

Make use of our experience and competence! We are looking forward to hearing from you!

Since 1999, CultureWaves supports companies in their international business as well as in processes of change and internationalisation.

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