PATHS and MAPS:

People centered ways to develop people and build better communities

 

Do you need the answer to this question?

 

"How can we make relationships and build organizations based on the realization that there is no one whose contribution we do not need?"

 

From time to time, when contemplating the future, it makes sense to discover or renew shared ideas about how to move forward.

 

PATHS and MAPS all start with a big sheet of paper, colored markers and a group of people committed to leading a person or a team to a future that makes the people, the team and the community better. 

 

Extra value in this process, compared to other methods, is:

 

• Focuses on the gifts, knowledge and skills of the people involved

• Builds trust and fosters relationships among the group

• Identifies the why and who of working toward the future, rather than just what needs to be done

• Holds the group accountable for progress on the plan

 

In this process, people have the opportunities to generate ideas and agree on the next work. There is freedom to say no or yes when designing the plan.

 

In the PATHS or MAPS Process, people participating:

 

• Describe the past and present situation

• Describe desired futre for either an individual or a group

• Acknowledge any worries (the what ifs)

• Identify the unique gifts, knowledge and talents of the individual or group

• Imagine ways that these gifts, knowledge and talents can be used to work toward the future

• Make a plan including who, what and when for each step

• Wrap up with individual reflections about the plan and the process

 

Description of the Processes Used:

 

PATH

PATHs are used for shorter term future planning. What needs to be done in the next year?

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MAPS

MAPS are useful when a person or group is looking more broadly at the future.