The Dolphin Method: Dive Deep, Surface Strong

Ever wonder how some organizations seem to effortlessly align their teams, from the C-suite to the frontline?

Feb 28, 2022

Rich Piech

The Dolphin Method: Dive Deep, Surface Strong

Ever wonder how some organizations seem to effortlessly align their teams, from the C-suite to the frontline?

Feb 28, 2022

Rich Piech

Pink Flower
Pink Flower
Pink Flower

Ever wonder how some organizations seem to effortlessly align their teams, from the C-suite to the frontline? Enter the Dolphin Method – a game-changing approach to organizational problem-solving and transformation.

Picture this: a dolphin gracefully diving deep into the ocean, then resurfacing for air. That's exactly how this method works, combining high-level executive vision with nitty-gritty frontline insights. Pretty cool, right?

So, what's the Dolphin Method all about?

At its core, it's a holistic framework that gets everyone on the same page. We're talking about understanding where you are now, where you want to be, and what's standing in your way. It's like having a GPS for your entire organization!

Let's break it down:

The Big Picture (Macro Level)

First things first, we start at the top. The executive team gets together to map out the current situation and the dream scenario. Think of it as plotting your course on a treasure map. We use some nifty tools like affinity maps and causal loops to visualize all the moving parts. Then, we zero in on one area that needs a deep dive.

Getting into the Weeds (Micro Level)

Now, here's where it gets interesting. We involve people from all levels of the organization to identify the roadblocks. We've got a whole toolkit of techniques, from sticky note brainstorming sessions to value stream mapping. My personal favorites include:

  • SIPOC (Supplier-Input-Process-Output-Customer) diagrams

  • The "5 Whys" technique (trust me, it's more fun than it sounds!)

  • User stories (because who doesn't love a good story?)

  • Job pains and gains assessment (like a health check-up for your roles)

Putting Our Heads Together

Remember that old saying, "Two heads are better than one"? Well, imagine having heads from every department working together! We bring everyone to the table because, let's face it, most problems don't live in a vacuum. It's all about getting different perspectives and creating solutions that everyone can get behind.

Making It Crystal Clear

After all that diving deep, we surface with a treasure trove of insights. But here's the kicker – we don't just dump a pile of information on your desk. We create what we call a FOCUS analytical map. It's a one-page visual summary that lays out our findings and proposed solutions. Think of it as your organizational cheat sheet!

So, why should you care about the Dolphin Method?

  1. It gets everyone singing from the same hymn sheet. No more "left hand doesn't know what the right hand is doing" scenarios.

  2. It's all about the data, baby! We don't just go with our gut – we back up our decisions with cold, hard facts.

  3. It's like a Swiss Army knife for problem-solving. We've got tools for every situation.

  4. It makes complex ideas easy to understand and act on. No more getting lost in translation!

  5. It keeps you on your toes. The Dolphin Method isn't a one-and-done deal. It's about continuous improvement, always staying ahead of the curve.

By embracing the Dolphin Method, you're not just solving problems – you're transforming your entire organization. It's like giving your business a superpower!

Ready to take the plunge? Dive in with the Dolphin Method and watch your organization swim to new heights. (Yes, we know dolphins don't actually swim to heights, but you get the idea!)

Remember, in the words of the wise Wayne Dyer, "If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change." So why not change your perspective with the Dolphin Method? Your future self will thank you!