What is Human Systems Consulting?

All systems have a purpose.

Mechanical systems, like teeter-totters or turnstiles move you up and down or let you in and out, with moving parts all working together.

Living systems adapt.

Ecological systems, such as the Fraser Valley, are made of plants, animals, earth, air and water in an inter-connected web of natural forces. Imagine life in a different situation: you might find yourself in the Queen Charlotte Islands or the Kootenays.

Human systems adapt to us as we, in turn, adapt to them.

Your workplace is an example of a human system. It is the way it is because each of you brings something to the whole, because of the history of your group, and because of the way your organization responds to change.

People succeed in well-run organizations that are accomplishing their purpose. The capacity to respond to external or internal change is integrated with the day-to-day. You can measure success by productivity, bottom-line and job satisfaction.

Other organizations have a harder time. Why? Internal challenges -- management style or labour relations -- or external forces -- sudden changes in technology or new competition -- add up to more than an organization can handle. Service, productivity and bottom-line all suffer. Sometimes people describe working in such organizations as like being in a dysfunctional family.

Human systems can be changed intentionally.

As I see it, human systems consulting is about working with you or your organization to find ways to better achieve your purpose, for example you might want: better communication, stronger client-base or improved community services.

How? Outside perspective to highlight productive and unproductive patterns is key, as is a balance of support and challenge. I bring curiosity and knowledge to your situation -- individual, departmental or organization-wide. Whatever your starting point, I will help you learn to succeed on your own!