Vision is hot. Organisations are increasingly focusing on deeper questions: Why do we exist? What do we stand for? Where do we want to go? What are our unique qualities? To answer these questions a vision is needed. A vision for the future and philosophy that come about through dialogue and active involvement of as many people as possible within the organisation. A shared vision, coming from within, connects people and gives direction. It is a source of energy and contributes to increased effectiveness. It is the heart of an organisation.
With much effort, energy, and especially fun the respective teams of the Surinamese education inspectorate and guidance services worked together on the development of a joint vision for both departments. The pedagogical institutes went through a similar trajectory. "We are proud of our partnership and the outcome of the workshops," was the general reaction of the participants.
In a first introductory workshop they explored the concept of 'vision'. This revealed themes such as: What does it mean? What is its purpose and value in change processes? How can you develop a vision and how to bring it to life within the organisation? In a two-day follow-up workshop, they worked further on the practical development of their own vision.
The motto of these days was “together on an expedition”, which compared working on a vision with a discovery journey. The participants discovered together, by exchanging and working intensively with each other, what they stand for and what they wish to achieve.
Together with the participants we look back on a special vision process that may serve as a compass for thinking and acting within the departments. Participants experienced the following: "A joint vision strengthens the capacity of our team. It increases the solidarity and solidity in a group. Knowing what the department stands for and where we want to go results in shared support... If one fully understands the vision, it works motivational and stimulates to achieve goals. It contributes to ensuring quality."
The teams also made a plan for achieving the vision developed. It serves as a good base to further shape the process of change within these departments. Because ultimately it aims to achieve the changes needed to evolve to the desired future image of the organisation!
Tille van Horenbeeck
Line Coordinator Ministerial departments PROGRESS, VVOB Suriname
