Communication and Interactions

The second broad set of programs and services offered by CLC is related to communication, a recurring theme in most CLC training programs. We understand the difficulties that arise when communication breaks down. We also understand the steps that both organizations and individuals can take to fix communication problems.

CLC communication programs and services run the gamut from training workshops to total IT restructuring. As with all of our programs, they are customized to meet the specific needs of the client. Brief descriptions of some of the possibilities are provided below.

Communication Workshops

These programs help participants communicate more effectively. The program develops several themes: the importance of temperament and personality, barriers to communication, diagnosing communication problems, and problem solving. In addition to classroom sessions, CLC administers several personal diagnostic tools to help participants understand better how to communicate with others.

Information Technology Audits.

These audits are conducted with the help of eBuilder, a full-service IT company in San Francisco, with a client list that includes Dell Computer, Wells Fargo Bank, and Microsoft Corporation http://www.ebuild.net. Our approach is based on the principle that IT exists to support basic business functions, not as an end in itself. Our audits are designed to clarify the kinds of information required by an organization and its people, and to assess the capacity of existing systems to deliver needed information in a timely manner. The audit process involves interviews with both IT staff and the line workers responsible for day-to-day operations. The audit results in a thorough and candid report of the strengths and weaknesses of existing systems with recommendations for steps to be taken to correct critical problems.

Information Technology Redesign

This service, provided in conjunction with eBuilder, is the step that follows an IT Audit. It involves working with the client’s IT staff to redesign and rebuild components of the existing IT systems that are reducing functionality and profitability. Special attention is devoted to designing systems and protocols that maximize returns on IT investments.

Intranet Design Services

This service, also provided in conjunction with eBuilder, helps clients design cost-effective communication networks to share information within and among units. Special attention in this design process is devoted to understanding mission critical information requirements of different units.

Performance Consoles

CLC staff firmly believe that peak performance cannot be achieved by either organizations or individuals without adequate information. We work with clients to identify the specific data elements and statistical indicators needed both to measure organizational performance and to monitor mission critical tasks. A critical element of this work is to design effective ways of getting critical information in the hands of appropriate staff. One of the key ways is through specially designed performance consoles that display critical information on a continuous basis.

Electronic Meeting Services (EMS)

The EMS tool that CLC uses is GroupSystems™, a comprehensive set of software tools that helps groups and teams work together for better and faster decisions. From issue exploration to final decisions, GroupSystems provides structure and focus for any team’s collaborative efforts. Linked on interconnected personal computers, people rapidly share information through electronic dialogs in meeting rooms, office to office, building to building, even city to city! There is equal opportunity for participation as participants use the keyboard to anonymously contribute ideas without fear of criticism or retribution. Ideas are evaluated on their merits, independent of personalities. Among the advantages of EMS are: simultaneous input (team brain storming) for greater speed, controlled settings in which no one dominates, teamwork approach with multiple perspectives and ownership, idea evaluation and rating based on multiple criteria, automatic documentation with no need for a scribe, anonymity that encourages idea generation and sharing.