Prototyping
Many organisations fail to recognise the distinction between having a bright idea and doing something with it. What is rare is the person who can take an idea - regardless of the source - and apply it on Monday morning.
Prototyping is a way to move the idea to action. This consultancy helps investors and project implementers understand and use tools designed to reward results rather than just effort. Outcome Funding is built on several principles:
1. Investors (purchasers) and implementers (providers) function more effectively as partners rather than adversaries;
2. Project success is strongly correlated with a focus on results rather than activities;
3. Efficiency is enhanced when a single set of tools is used for both securing funds and managing implementation;
4. The presence of the right people capable of carrying out a project is more important than a perfectly written plan.
The general sequence of steps carried out over a 4-7 month period:
1. Investor briefing This 2 hour session is designed to introduce managers and leaders of the investing organisation to the principles and components of the Outcome Funding framework. Managers are asked to assess the approach against current issues and priorities. Those wishing to participate move on to Step 2.
2. Designing the Prototype A small design team which reflects the investors central interests is established to assess the organisational context for a funding project. A brief Investor Outcome Plan is defined specifying the overall outcomes to be accomplished and any 'givens' which need to be taken into account.
3. Informing the providers Service providers are offered an in-depth orientation on the concepts underlying Outcome Funding and how they might be put into practice.
4. Identifying participants Applicants are considered according to their readiness, interest and capacity to take part in the project.
5. Preparing the Target Plan A series of workshops and individual briefings are held to help providers to develop performance targets, products and milestones. When investors have approved these plans, the implementation begins.
6. The prototype period A test period is held over three months. Consultation is available throughout, as well as a mid-course check-up to determine issues and progress.
7. Learnings and results Both investors and implementers are brought together to jointly determine the usefulness of the Outcome Funding experience, and discuss how the lessons learnt can be incorporated into future contracting and ongoing contract management.
