TOOL
Destination Selector
By developing shared goals, the group can focus their efforts on achieving mutual success and avoid competing interests that may hinder progress.
Tool purpose
The purpose of this tool is to bring diverse stakeholders together to co-create a unified vision for the project. It fosters collaboration, ensures that all voices are heard, and drives commitment to a shared direction. The tool helps break down silos and align everyone’s efforts towards a collective outcome.
When to use it
Multiple teams or stakeholders have conflicting priorities.
A new initiative, project, or strategic effort is being launched, and alignment is critical.
During times of organizational change or restructuring, when clear, shared goals can guide teams through transitions.
When collaboration between cross-functional teams or external partners is needed.
Area
Project managers, facilitators, leadership teams, and change managers.
Time
1 to 2 hours
Participants
Small to medium-sized teams (5-9 people) for focused collaboration Remember to involve all stakeholders you believe can contribute but keep the core small and agile.
Capabilities
Conflict management
Goal setting
Project Planning
Team Collaboration
Templates
Method
Step 1 - Identify stakeholders and participants
Start by ensuring you have the right mix of stakeholders in the room. These should be key decision-makers, representatives of different departments or external partners, and anyone who will be significantly impacted by the project.
Begin with introductions and ask each participant to share their role and expectations for the session. This sets the tone and builds an understanding of who is at the table.
Step 2 - Clarify individual objectives
Ask each participant to articulate their individual objectives for the project. This can be done through an open discussion or, if the group is large, in smaller breakout groups. The key is to ensure everyone’s voice is heard.
Give each participant a few minutes to write down their objectives on sticky notes or index cards. Then, have them share these with the group or their breakout team. This helps make individual goals visible and tangible.
Step 3 - Identify common ground
As a facilitator, guide the group to identify overlaps or complementary goals among the individual objectives. Encourage participants to look for areas where their interests align.
On a shared board or digital tool, start clustering similar objectives together. Use guiding questions like “Which of these objectives support similar outcomes?” or “Where do we see common themes emerging?” to help uncover alignment.
Step 4 - Address conflicting goals
Conflicts between goals are common, and it’s essential to handle them constructively. Facilitate open discussions where participants can express their concerns and explore ways to resolve differences.
Use a structured conflict resolution tool, such as “How Might We?” to frame disagreements in a positive light. For example, ask, “How might we achieve both X and Y, even though they seem in conflict?” Encourage creative thinking to turn conflicts into collaborative opportunities.
Step 5 - Co-create shared goals
Once common ground has been established and conflicts resolved, guide the group to craft clear, collective goals. These should be SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) to ensure accountability and progress.
Write the draft goals in front of the group, ensuring all voices are considered in the final wording. Confirm with the group that the goals are achievable and meaningful to everyone. Ask, “Is this a goal we can all commit to?” to secure buy-in.
Step 6 - Break down goals into actionable steps
Once shared goals are set, the next step is to define how to achieve them. Facilitate a discussion on breaking the goals into actionable steps, assigning responsibilities, and establishing timelines.
Use a project planning tool, such as a Gantt chart or action plan template, to help the group outline who will do what and by when. Each step should be assigned to a specific person or team with a clear deadline.
Step 7 - Develop accountability mechanisms
Establish how the group will track progress toward the shared goals. This keeps everyone accountable and ensures that the team stays aligned.
Set up regular check-ins or progress reports where stakeholders can review progress on the shared goals. These check-ins should include updates on what has been achieved, any obstacles faced, and adjustments needed.