Strategic Initiative Events Offer Lessons on Change

Several implementation plan initiatives and contacts closed out the spring semester in the university spotlight. Between the town halls, webinars and showcases our Strategy and Implementation Team attended, we observed good practices for anyone facilitating strategic change at any level at NC State. Here are three of them.

Create a shared history

Start an event with a little background. Chances are good that participants are coming in with different degrees of knowledge, experience and insight. Some have been at NC State for decades, while others may be brand new. Establishing a basic foundation of shared awareness smooths the path as the event — and the initiative — moves forward.

Offer timely feedback

Offer a clear way for participants to submit questions, and encourage them to do so. Ideally, build in time for an expert to answer those questions live. Chances are good that if one participant has a question, so does someone else. A live Q&A is one of the fastest ways to build trust and reduce misinformation. And, it’s a head start for generating FAQs.

Keep the conversation going

Ensure the momentum doesn’t end when the event does. Tell participants how to stay informed and engaged in the initiative. Direct them to a webpage or news source where they can find updates in the future. 

Why it matters for strategic change

These three practices do more than improve meetings; they contribute to success across the university through clarity, alignment and transparency. Use these practices to move beyond basic information sharing towards building the trust and readiness needed for lasting results. 

Questions about the university implementation plan? Contact Courtney Thornton, Associate Vice Provost for Strategy, Implementation and Communication, Institutional Effectiveness, at chthornt@ncsu.edu.