Phase 2: Go or No Go? Predefining Success and Failure

The successful completion of Phase 2 is dependent on the success of the various stakeholders in Kindersley and West Central Saskatchewan in working together. The decision to build or not build is a collective one, recognizing what is best for Kindersley and West Central SK. How can we do this so that everyone understands the decision and agrees with it? Indulge me as I outline some of my thinking.

One of the big questions I have asked Administration and the Multi Use Building Committee (MUBC) is:

At what point do we know when the project is a pass/go or fail/no go? At what point do we know Option A will work or not work? When do we know Option B will work or not work, or whether to go with Option C? A standard is needed so that a rational and prudent decision can be made regarding the efforts going into the development of Phase 2. What is the point we stop because of x, y, or z?

In order to determine whether to continue the project, seek alternate options, or postpone it, it is important to mutually agree on standards or benchmarks. The benefit of having these in place is that everyone can identify what constitutes success or failure. Predefining success enables everyone contributing to know in advance that the process is or is not working. Another benefit is that everyone who is working on the project will know whether they are making a difference. We need, as a group, to see if we are moving down the highway. Who wants to spend their energy not going anywhere? It is easier for the better angels of our nature to succeed when the vision and standard is clear ahead of time.

As I have mentioned before, a collaborative effort is needed to differentiate between success and failure. We all need to own and accept responsibility for the decision to move forward, to pause, or to back away from Phase 2.

A caveat: Over time I have learned that sometimes you can do everything right and still not get the right result. That is my greatest fear with Phase 2: we are doing a lot of right things but we may still not get the financing we need, or discover the financing is too expensive.

However, we are working hard to see Phase 2 built and it will only be as successful as the community of West Central Saskatchewan working together. The most important outcome isn’t an aquatic centre, gym/fieldhouse, and theatre; the most important outcome is a strong and united community.