Presenter: Kap Wilkes, Director of Program Development, National Rural Health Resource Center

More and more organizations, groups, and industries are recognizing that complex issues can’t be addressed from one direction alone. To achieve sustainable outcomes, representatives of diverse stakeholder groups are coming together in networks and coalitions to develop and implement mutually beneficial solutions. Successful leaders of networks are often known for their abilities to build relationships, connect communities, and implement strategies to achieve a shared vision. But how do leaders and facilitators guide groups through important discussions in ways that best harness their collective wisdom and commitment?

This presentation will provide network leaders and participants with an understanding of how individuals process information and how groups make decisions. Participants will review practical tools for designing discussions and decision-making sessions that take advantage of the natural thinking process and lead to greater group creativity and consensus. The presenter will rely on examples of network collaboration based on years of experience facilitating rural health networks around the country in their efforts to improve the quality of care in their communities.

Learning objectives:
• Gain insight into the dynamics of group decision making and how network participants can contribute to productive discussions.
• Explore techniques for facilitating key conversations with network representatives.
• Understand approaches to navigating common barriers experienced in network facilitation.