FACILITATION
ROLE
The Parking Lot
The
parking lot is a useful tool to ensure that the
facilitated discussion does not get sidetracked...even
when the off-topic item is important.
The
usual approach is to keep a flip chart designated as the
parking lot. When one of the participants raises
an item or point that is important, but threatens to
sidetrack the current discussion, suggest that the item
be added to the parking lot, and note the item on the
flipchart. Then immediately take the discussion back on
topic.
It
is important to ensure that the parking lot items are
addressed prior to the conclusion of the session.
Association CEOs,
managers and volunteer leaders frequently facilitate
sessions or meetings involving staff, volunteers,
members and third parties.
The intent of the Facilitation Role
is to expose readers to various facilitation tools, how
they work, and when they should be used.
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