Terms of Engagement

Aim:

To create a set of core values that define how you would like to engage with each other. 

Time:

1 hour

This process is scalable, it can be project specific or used more generally for your network.

Take some time by yourself to think about the values that are important to you when collaborating with others. You may wish to note them down.

Provocation: Ask these questions:

How do we want to be together in the space?

How do we want to behave?

How do we want to share?

What do we need from each other?

How can we support each other’s access needs?

What are our fears or uncertainties and how do we address them?

Put your ideas together in a way that suits your project. This could be a wall covered in post it notes if you are together physically, or a shared google document in a digital space. Group together similar ideas.

In a group, whether digitally or in person, discuss your ideas. Take this opportunity to question, celebrate and respectfully challenge. Make a list of the core values that feel important to you all.

Provocation: Consider these questions in your discussion.

How does it feel?

Is anything missing?

Do you have any questions about any of the contributions?

Will these thoughts support successful collaboration?

Keep your Terms of Engagement list in a place that is accessible to your group for the duration of your project or collaboration. Take joint ownership of it and treat it as fluid. Everyone should be able to absorb it, edit or add to it as you go along.