Asking the Right Questions
Asking the right questions (and solving them) is one of the most important parts of a project. This learning activity is part of the Leadership and Direction section.
Instructions
Divide the class into three groups and assign each team the task of coming up with five questions that they should ask when assigned or starting a new project. They should also provide possible answers to each of the questions.
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Team 1 will ask and answer in general terms, questions relating to the organization. e.g., “Does the project support the mission statement?”
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Team 2 will ask and answer in general terms, questions related to the team. e.g., “What skills does the team need for a successful project?”
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Team 3 will ask and answer in general terms, questions related to the individual. e.g., “What skills or knowledge will I have to learn?”
Encourage paradoxical questions, for example, “Will we be penalized for succeeding?”
When they are finished, rejoin them into one large group and have each group discuss their findings. Also discuss:
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How will the team or team leader know if all the questions have been asked?
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How do questions help to ensure that the project is successful?
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What type of questions must be asked and answered to ensure the project is appropriate for the organization (or the team for that matter)?
Next Steps
Return to the Leadership and Direction section.
Return to the Leadership Training and Development Outline