LAUNCHING: How to get started? Diagnosis!

3. General steps of the diagnosis

When it comes to diagnosing issues or problems, the steps can vary depending on the specific context and the nature of the problem as well as the network we envision or want to diagnose. There are some general steps that can be followed in the diagnosis process for networks:

1. Problem identification: Identify the issue or problem that needs to be addressed. The problem might be that there is no network but you see the need of it! This could be also related specifically to performance, productivity, communication, culture, leadership, or any other aspect of the organization or network you want to launch or revive.
2. Data gathering. Collect relevant data and information to gain a deeper understanding of the problem. This can involve conducting surveys, interviews, observations, and reviewing organizational documents, reports, stories, photos... You can be creative on this point! Anything that can bring value to the introspection about the issue you are interested in is a valid source of information.
3. Analysis. When you have enough (this depends on your personal opinion) data you start to play with them! Analyze the data and information collected to identify patterns, trends, and potential causes of the problem. This may involve using various analytical techniques, such as statistical analysis, process mapping, or root cause analysis. It is very important to keep track of the work you do to not double the work or lose yourself in the maze of pieces of information.
4. Diagnosis formulation. Based on the analysis, you may develop a diagnosis that explains the underlying causes or factors contributing to the problem. This diagnosis should provide a clear understanding of why the issue is occurring. It can take the form of a rapport, a title, or a drawing...
5. Recommendations: Once the diagnosis is made, the more creative steps start. At this stage, you are invited to develop recommendations for addressing the problem. These recommendations should be practical, feasible, and tailored to the specific needs and circumstances of the organization.
6. Implementation. Camera...Action! Put the recommendations into action by developing an action plan and implementing the necessary changes or interventions. This may involve restructuring processes, revising policies, providing training, or implementing new strategies. It is important to stay realistic in the previous part, so the implementation can also bring joy, rather than bitter surprises!
7. Evaluation. Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the implemented changes to determine if the problem has been resolved or improved. You can start the evaluation already in the middle of the process of making changes, or even after each step. Being honest and including various voices from your network is a crucial point here because this will also asses each and every step undertaken before. This may also involve collecting additional data, measuring key performance indicators, and soliciting feedback from the network members.

It's important to note that network diagnosis is a complex and iterative process. The steps outlined above provide a general framework, but the actual approach may vary depending on the methodology and the nature of the network being diagnosed.