Group Facilitation
There’s a big difference between a meeting and a productive meeting.
A lot of valuable time is wasted in meetings that are directionless, repetitive, and boring. Important projects and critical coalitions have dissolved because meetings became dysfunctional or conflict-focused.
Professional group facilitation can make a huge difference. Productive meetings can be accomplished even when groups are very diverse, have controversial or complex issues, and may have a history of conflict or sabotage.
Janice Wilberg, Wilberg Community Planning LLC, is a trained group facilitator. She received training in group facilitation techniques from the Institute for Cultural Affairs and public participation strategies from the International Association for Public Participation.
She uses a variety of proven methods to insure that:
- Each meeting has a clear agenda and desired outcome.
- Everyone is a welcomed and respected contributor.
- Discussion strategies are efficient and inclusive.
- Conflict is issue-focused and productive.
- Next steps are clear and achievable.
- Group members are enthusiastic and optimistic about their progress.
Examples of successful group facilitation:
- City of Milwaukee Lead Poisoning Prevention Planning Process
- Launch of Milwaukee County’s AODA (Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse) Sustainability Work Group
- Department of Workforce Development and Bureau of Milwaukee Child Welfare Discussion regarding Improved Collaboration
- Mental Health Task Force: Development of Operating Principles
- Waukesha County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council