When we use Post-It notes or boards or computers to record thoughts, we
are fixing these thoughts in time and space. Our role as leaders or
facilitators in learning organizations is to promote interchange which
leads to clarification or synthesis, two essential elements in human
communication, and foundations of dialogue as so lucidly defined in this
list.
Our promotion of expression, then, walks a fine line sometimes, does it
not? We fix an idea in time and space, but we explicitly or implicitly
caution against viewing the idea as immutable. To do so would pander to
what in many of us is a natural conservatism to allow for stasis. Put it
into the trophy case and place the key back around the neck. Yet some
ideas are worthy of such for a while, no?
I'm sure no one who reads this completely accepts such a trophy case
scenario for all ideas. Walking the fine line for us means we develop
insights into practical ways for considering ideas--when to promote, when
to place on the back burner, or every spot in between.
This dynamism in practical application of idea work is the essence of good
business communication. I think it involves risk; it encompasses elation
and despair. It can make each day on the job unique and fulfilling.
-- Best regards, Barry Mallis bmallis@markem.com