Hi Luis,
Before you get together with your group ask them to take some time to
describe the issues they want help with. Specifically, you are asking
them for their reference mode data. You can get this by asking them to
describe the problems they see and to add some time series data in the
form of graphs or spreadsheets to support their concerns. The time
series dont have to be data that is regularly measured. Ask for a
hand-drawn graph of when things go wrong and how it looks. That is,
they can define the y-axis on the graphs with variables like delivery
delays, late shipments, back orders, backlogs, inventories, sales, etc.,
etc.
If the participants can get the time series data to you before your
meeting, you can develop one or more dynamic hypotheses and illustrate
the issues with their graphs. From this, you will have a first cut at
the outputs for your model and that will help point to the inputs. You
can then ask them to supply you with more information for the inputs.
As an alternative, you can describe the problems for them. This is less
satisfying and sets you up as an expert in their business -- which it
doesnt sound like you are. But if you have a set of outputs described
and can illustrate a problem or set of symptoms, they can at least
comment on and develop your hypothesis.
Some practical advice:
Aim to listen 80% and talk 20% of the meeting time. When you talk:
Avoid SD jargon. Avoid scientific talk. Avoid mentioning the history
of the methodology. Avoid reference to other organizations that have
used SD unless you have the published information to distribute. Avoid
reference to mathematics and/or computer simulation models unless the
participants are mathematicians and/or computer wonks. Use their
terminology with great care. Stick to commonly understood accounting,
business and finance terms and assume that very few accounting, business
and finance terms are commonly understood.
--
Jim Thompson
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Global Prospectus LLC
+1 860 676 8152
jim@GlobalProspectus.com
http://GlobalProspectus.com