Patterns & Metaphors
Rational objective
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The rational objective is first, the objective intent of the programme. It is a description of what is to be accomplished. It is deciding whether the conference will be basically decision making, experiential or informative. It is deciding the breadth or focus of the topics being covered.
It is, second, deciding what the end product of the event will be. Is the product a resolution, a more understanding group, or a position paper ? Is it renewed friendships or motivated members of a movement ? The more concrete the product is for organizers and participants the greater the possibility of actually reaching it.
The third part of creating the rational objective is deciding what broad steps will accomplish the intent. These broad steps of the event are thought through and articulated.
When no rational objective is decided either before or during the first few hours of the event, there are at least two potential problems. The participants and organizers alike may experience a great deal of anxiety about the overall direction. The lack of a framework for what the conference will and will not cover encourages irrelevant diversions in the discussions.
