Welcome back. You belong here.
This one is not on innovation, but on something deeper, on my amazing life with my wife and children and Family Council, so maybe it is on innovation, communication and collaboration after all.
We just finished Family Council, and it was amazing, one of the best ones in a long time. What is FC?
My wife and I, and our three children, 10, 7.5 and 5.5 all talk for 1.5 hour, I know pretty unheard of, but it's true. We have an "emotions" sheet with about a hundred emotions on it and some (not all) of us use it to answer the transcendent question "how do you feel?"
We do that for a while, all of us involved, asking questions of each other, commenting, processing out loud (even our 5.5 year old boy). Today we had laughter and even tears, we felt very close to each other.
We do this every Sunday night and then we have popsicles!
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Do You have a Meeting Problem?
Welcome back. You belong here.
Seth's Blog: Getting serious about your meeting problem. I'm going to try #4 and #5...
4. Remove all the chairs from the conference room. I'm serious.
5. If someone is more than two minutes later than the last person to the meeting, they have to pay a fine of $10 to the coffee fund.
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
Seth's Blog: Getting serious about your meeting problem. I'm going to try #4 and #5...
4. Remove all the chairs from the conference room. I'm serious.
5. If someone is more than two minutes later than the last person to the meeting, they have to pay a fine of $10 to the coffee fund.
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
Are You a Visionary Leader?
Welcome back. You belong here.
These are the traits visionary leaders posses, plus being very bad at details and thinking too much!
"Visionary leaders possess many traits, including: The unique ability to see exactly where they want to go. Plus, being emotionally connected to where they want to be. The ability to help people around them see the same vision with distinct clarity—as well as evoke an emotional connection to the organization’s goals. The key here is for them to understand what the benefits are to them—job security, monetary rewards, public recognition or better lifestyle at the organization."
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
These are the traits visionary leaders posses, plus being very bad at details and thinking too much!
"Visionary leaders possess many traits, including: The unique ability to see exactly where they want to go. Plus, being emotionally connected to where they want to be. The ability to help people around them see the same vision with distinct clarity—as well as evoke an emotional connection to the organization’s goals. The key here is for them to understand what the benefits are to them—job security, monetary rewards, public recognition or better lifestyle at the organization."
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
Companies Increase Innovation Spending
Welcome back. You belong here.
During this recessions, wages and jobs are decreasing, but companies are increasing Innovation spending. "The Innovation Climate Survey also asked practitioners what innovation strategies they were using:
- Looking for creative ways to improve or extend your existing products (50.9%)
- Looking for opportunities to improve collaboration (47.2%)
-Increasing focus on changing customer needs (39.8%)
- Focusing on service innovation (38.1%)
- Focusing on process innovation (36.4%)"
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
During this recessions, wages and jobs are decreasing, but companies are increasing Innovation spending. "The Innovation Climate Survey also asked practitioners what innovation strategies they were using:
- Looking for creative ways to improve or extend your existing products (50.9%)
- Looking for opportunities to improve collaboration (47.2%)
-Increasing focus on changing customer needs (39.8%)
- Focusing on service innovation (38.1%)
- Focusing on process innovation (36.4%)"
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
Innovation: Ten Rules for Strategic Innovators
Welcome back. You belong here.
Listening to podcast by Dr. Vijay Govindarajan of the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth: Innovation: Ten Rules for Strategic Innovators:
1. Box#1 - Manage the Present
2. Box#2 - Selectively Forget the Past
3. Box#3 - Create the Future
Most companies focus on Box#1. Innovation is about Box#2 and #3. Strategy is about what to do across the three boxes. 5 years of recession mean 5 years of success. 30% of companies died in the previous 2000-2001 recession because they did not innovate. 20-30% of your time needs to go to Innovation.
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
Listening to podcast by Dr. Vijay Govindarajan of the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth: Innovation: Ten Rules for Strategic Innovators:
1. Box#1 - Manage the Present
2. Box#2 - Selectively Forget the Past
3. Box#3 - Create the Future
Most companies focus on Box#1. Innovation is about Box#2 and #3. Strategy is about what to do across the three boxes. 5 years of recession mean 5 years of success. 30% of companies died in the previous 2000-2001 recession because they did not innovate. 20-30% of your time needs to go to Innovation.
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
Friday, April 24, 2009
Catalyst West: Guy Kawasaki
Welcome back. You belong here.
Following updates from the Catalyst West Conference in Los Angeles, CA. Guy Kawasaki spoke yesterday on Leadership, Innovation and Partnerships, my kind of topic!
Here are some of my favorite quotes:
The reason you have to hire someone from the outside is because there's no one on your team that can do it
Hire outside meeting facilitator ... help communicate, bond
if you truly want to be innovative, create MEANING
change the world
The Art of Innovation
here today to talk about innovation
Innovation is a skill that can be applied in any circumstance
wendy's mantra should be "healthy fast food"
Nike's mantra should be "authentic athletic performance"
FedEx's mantra should be "peace of mind"
about the perspective of innovation. What is innovation?
It is not about doing it better ... it is about doing it 10 times better!
most organizations define who they are by what they do
you need to jump a curve
create a curve
from 50,000 ft view to 5,000 ft view
Great innovation is DEEP: lots of power
Metal clip on the bottom of your sandal that opens beer bottles
Great Innovation is INTELLIGENT
Great Innovation is COMPLETE
great churches are complete - have good day care!
The Lexus is a "complete" experience
Great Innovation is ELEGANT
Great Innovation is EMOTIVE
you love them or you hate them
the concept of a church that appeals to everybody is MISSION IMPOSSIBLE
if you try to appeal to everybody, you will end up with mediocrity
totally downing Toyota Scion Xb
Toyota, why did you hire the guy who got fired from Volvo to design the Xb?
don't intentionally anger people
but if you create something great, you will create controversy
better to have people that love AND hate your stuff
than a group of people who are apathetic
what abotu the people that are rejecting your church?
Should I chase those that are rejecting your church?
if people don't get it in the first 15 minutes, they won't ever get
don't chase 'em
as an innovator, you have to be in denial
ignore the bozos
once you ship, you have to listen again
learn to evolve your product
Graph: Unique on the vertical
Value on the horizontal
if you're like everyone else, it's always about price
if you're truly unique, there's little value ... you're just stupid ... you own a market that doesn't exist
what is it that you are unique that makes you special?
is your specialness valuable?
be unique and valuable
all the marketing boils down to unique and valuable
as a leader, you need to learn to pitch
pitch for sales
pitch for money
rules of powerpoint
optimal slides in a powerpoint is TEN
give slides in 20 minutes
most of the time, people need 45 minutes to get the laptop to work with the projector
optimal point font size is 30 points
rule of thumb: take the oldest person in the audience, divide their age by two and that's your optimal font
he's selling church.alltop.com
he's doing a twayer (twitter prayer)
Dear God: Thank you for this opportunity to serve. Let your innovation shine & make the world a better place for al people. Amen. #catwestc
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
Following updates from the Catalyst West Conference in Los Angeles, CA. Guy Kawasaki spoke yesterday on Leadership, Innovation and Partnerships, my kind of topic!
Here are some of my favorite quotes:
The reason you have to hire someone from the outside is because there's no one on your team that can do it
Hire outside meeting facilitator ... help communicate, bond
if you truly want to be innovative, create MEANING
change the world
The Art of Innovation
here today to talk about innovation
Innovation is a skill that can be applied in any circumstance
wendy's mantra should be "healthy fast food"
Nike's mantra should be "authentic athletic performance"
FedEx's mantra should be "peace of mind"
about the perspective of innovation. What is innovation?
It is not about doing it better ... it is about doing it 10 times better!
most organizations define who they are by what they do
you need to jump a curve
create a curve
from 50,000 ft view to 5,000 ft view
Great innovation is DEEP: lots of power
Metal clip on the bottom of your sandal that opens beer bottles
Great Innovation is INTELLIGENT
Great Innovation is COMPLETE
great churches are complete - have good day care!
The Lexus is a "complete" experience
Great Innovation is ELEGANT
Great Innovation is EMOTIVE
you love them or you hate them
the concept of a church that appeals to everybody is MISSION IMPOSSIBLE
if you try to appeal to everybody, you will end up with mediocrity
totally downing Toyota Scion Xb
Toyota, why did you hire the guy who got fired from Volvo to design the Xb?
don't intentionally anger people
but if you create something great, you will create controversy
better to have people that love AND hate your stuff
than a group of people who are apathetic
what abotu the people that are rejecting your church?
Should I chase those that are rejecting your church?
if people don't get it in the first 15 minutes, they won't ever get
don't chase 'em
as an innovator, you have to be in denial
ignore the bozos
once you ship, you have to listen again
learn to evolve your product
Graph: Unique on the vertical
Value on the horizontal
if you're like everyone else, it's always about price
if you're truly unique, there's little value ... you're just stupid ... you own a market that doesn't exist
what is it that you are unique that makes you special?
is your specialness valuable?
be unique and valuable
all the marketing boils down to unique and valuable
as a leader, you need to learn to pitch
pitch for sales
pitch for money
rules of powerpoint
optimal slides in a powerpoint is TEN
give slides in 20 minutes
most of the time, people need 45 minutes to get the laptop to work with the projector
optimal point font size is 30 points
rule of thumb: take the oldest person in the audience, divide their age by two and that's your optimal font
he's selling church.alltop.com
he's doing a twayer (twitter prayer)
Dear God: Thank you for this opportunity to serve. Let your innovation shine & make the world a better place for al people. Amen. #catwestc
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Welcome to Serve.gov
Welcome back. You belong here.
I believe sites like Serve.gov are going to lead the way in helping people find their passion and connect them with opportunities to serve.
This helps all of us "Answer the Call" and get involved in our communities. I typed in "Mentorship/Arvada, CO" and got 5 opp's. Awesome. Check it out.
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
I believe sites like Serve.gov are going to lead the way in helping people find their passion and connect them with opportunities to serve.
This helps all of us "Answer the Call" and get involved in our communities. I typed in "Mentorship/Arvada, CO" and got 5 opp's. Awesome. Check it out.
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
Perception, Communication and Missionaries
Welcome back. You belong here.
What is a missionary?
In church, when people talk about "missionaries" most of us think of boring slide shows during Sunday night church.
Much of missions work has changed, you look at the websites of known mission groups such as World Vision and Children's Hunger Fund and they emphasize stories and involvement over maps.
Nonetheless, at the local church level, most people hear the word "global missions", and they check out, they say "it's not for me."
My job is to try and help change this perception through communication, collaboration and innovation, basically bringing people together.
Simple things such as moving away from language such as "Missions Sundays" and towards "Fulfilling Your Dreams" will go a long way in helping people discover their passion. We want to emphasize that God created each of us for good, for a purpose, but that life, business, brokenness and pain sometimes causes us to lose our way, never finding our passion in life.
Here's a similar recent quote from President Obama on "A Call to Service":
"We need your service, right now, at this moment in history. I’m not going to tell you what your role should be; that’s for you to discover. But I’m asking you to stand up and play your part. I’m asking you to help change history’s course. Put your shoulder up against the wheel. And if you do, I promise you – your life will be richer, our country will be stronger, and someday, years from now, you may remember it as the moment when your own story and the American story converged, when they came together, and we met the challenges of our new century."
If we help people understand they are uniquely made and created for good deeds and if that passion happens to be global awareness, eliminating malaria or stopping human trafficking, the better still.
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
What is a missionary?
In church, when people talk about "missionaries" most of us think of boring slide shows during Sunday night church.
Much of missions work has changed, you look at the websites of known mission groups such as World Vision and Children's Hunger Fund and they emphasize stories and involvement over maps.
Nonetheless, at the local church level, most people hear the word "global missions", and they check out, they say "it's not for me."
My job is to try and help change this perception through communication, collaboration and innovation, basically bringing people together.
Simple things such as moving away from language such as "Missions Sundays" and towards "Fulfilling Your Dreams" will go a long way in helping people discover their passion. We want to emphasize that God created each of us for good, for a purpose, but that life, business, brokenness and pain sometimes causes us to lose our way, never finding our passion in life.
Here's a similar recent quote from President Obama on "A Call to Service":
"We need your service, right now, at this moment in history. I’m not going to tell you what your role should be; that’s for you to discover. But I’m asking you to stand up and play your part. I’m asking you to help change history’s course. Put your shoulder up against the wheel. And if you do, I promise you – your life will be richer, our country will be stronger, and someday, years from now, you may remember it as the moment when your own story and the American story converged, when they came together, and we met the challenges of our new century."
If we help people understand they are uniquely made and created for good deeds and if that passion happens to be global awareness, eliminating malaria or stopping human trafficking, the better still.
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Communication is Big Need at Local School
Welcome back. You belong here.
Last night we had a meeting at the elementary school where our three children attend. After a lengthy conversation on communication where parents expressed their concerns over the poor communication between students and teachers, I knew I could help.
After all, this blog is about my speciality - Communication, Innovation and Collaboration - Bringing People Together.
I spoke to the team that is working in this area and offered my help. They recently went to another local school who is known for their good communication, they brought back some great ideas. They seemed open and interested.
I told them of two things that would help our communication right away:
1. Collaboration - instead of waiting to hire a web master, ask the receptionists to print newsletters, instead, let's do this together, teachers, students and parents. Great Ideas will come from these groups.
2. Technology - is the #1 way to accomplish this. Collaborative websites such as Google Docs are free and can be used by many users
In the future, I hope to help my school in this area and to be the Communication Specialist on their volunteer staff.
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
Last night we had a meeting at the elementary school where our three children attend. After a lengthy conversation on communication where parents expressed their concerns over the poor communication between students and teachers, I knew I could help.
After all, this blog is about my speciality - Communication, Innovation and Collaboration - Bringing People Together.
I spoke to the team that is working in this area and offered my help. They recently went to another local school who is known for their good communication, they brought back some great ideas. They seemed open and interested.
I told them of two things that would help our communication right away:
1. Collaboration - instead of waiting to hire a web master, ask the receptionists to print newsletters, instead, let's do this together, teachers, students and parents. Great Ideas will come from these groups.
2. Technology - is the #1 way to accomplish this. Collaborative websites such as Google Docs are free and can be used by many users
In the future, I hope to help my school in this area and to be the Communication Specialist on their volunteer staff.
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Erase and Reinstall
Welcome back. You belong here.
Sometimes all that's left to do is: Erase and Reinstall.
MacBookPro, running better.
Sometimes all that's left to do is: Erase and Reinstall.
MacBookPro, running better.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Upward Movement
Welcome back. You belong here.
There are two areas of upward movement I'd like to see in the future. Two areas I have a passion for, combined with my core calling: music/mentorship/mission. They are:
1. Spiritual Formation and
2. Communication/Collaboration and Innovation - Bringing People Together
These are two areas I'd love to add to my job description in the future. I'm already doing both, doing them well and they would make me feel even more actualized professionally.
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
There are two areas of upward movement I'd like to see in the future. Two areas I have a passion for, combined with my core calling: music/mentorship/mission. They are:
1. Spiritual Formation and
2. Communication/Collaboration and Innovation - Bringing People Together
These are two areas I'd love to add to my job description in the future. I'm already doing both, doing them well and they would make me feel even more actualized professionally.
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
Snow is Coming
Welcome back. You belong here.
This is the part of living in Denver, CO that I don't like. Snow and cold over the next 2-3 days. No!!
Currently
36.5 °F
Rain Light Snow
Humidity: 93%
Wind: Calm
Visibility: 5.0 miles
Dew Point: 35 °F
Precipitation: 60% chance of rain
Air quality: Good
Pressure: 30.09 in
UV: 0
Observed at: I-70 and Kipling, Arvada, CO
Updated: 9:50 PM MDT on April 16, 2009
Friday
32° | 31°
Saturday
40° | 31°
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
This is the part of living in Denver, CO that I don't like. Snow and cold over the next 2-3 days. No!!
Currently
36.5 °F
Rain Light Snow
Humidity: 93%
Wind: Calm
Visibility: 5.0 miles
Dew Point: 35 °F
Precipitation: 60% chance of rain
Air quality: Good
Pressure: 30.09 in
UV: 0
Observed at: I-70 and Kipling, Arvada, CO
Updated: 9:50 PM MDT on April 16, 2009
Friday
32° | 31°
Saturday
40° | 31°
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
My Three Loves
Welcome back. You belong here.
In case you're wondering, there are thee things I love (professionally), they are my 3 M's:
1. Music
2. Mentorship
3. Mission
There's a fourth which is not an M - Communication, Innovation and Collaboration.
My other loves are my wife, Jesus, our three children, Nicaragua, my abuelita, my mom and dad, exercise and a few others.
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
In case you're wondering, there are thee things I love (professionally), they are my 3 M's:
1. Music
2. Mentorship
3. Mission
There's a fourth which is not an M - Communication, Innovation and Collaboration.
My other loves are my wife, Jesus, our three children, Nicaragua, my abuelita, my mom and dad, exercise and a few others.
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
Held Up Google Docs and iPhone
Welcome back. You belong here.
Today at staff meeting we talked about communication and Google Calendars. My great moment came when I help up my laptop (I magnified it to 300%) showing my Google Docs to the whole staff. I got a few oooh's and ahhh's. Cool.
Even cooler was when I grabbed my iPhone and put it next to my laptop with Google Docs loaded on my iPhone. More oooh's and ahhhh's.
You know what's even cooler than that? I grabbed my neighbor's iPhone (with his permission), loaded Google Calendar on his iPhone and put both phones next to my laptop. Now that was cool.
This is why I totally agree with this post: There are only two kinds of people, ones who have switched to iPhone and the ones who eventually will.
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
Today at staff meeting we talked about communication and Google Calendars. My great moment came when I help up my laptop (I magnified it to 300%) showing my Google Docs to the whole staff. I got a few oooh's and ahhh's. Cool.
Even cooler was when I grabbed my iPhone and put it next to my laptop with Google Docs loaded on my iPhone. More oooh's and ahhhh's.
You know what's even cooler than that? I grabbed my neighbor's iPhone (with his permission), loaded Google Calendar on his iPhone and put both phones next to my laptop. Now that was cool.
This is why I totally agree with this post: There are only two kinds of people, ones who have switched to iPhone and the ones who eventually will.
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
Adopting New Ideas by Using Them
Welcome back. You belong here.
I still have a long way to go in verbalizing my ideas to others, often I lead by example and do things in hopes others will follow. Sometimes that works, sometimes not.
Example - How do you get your team to use Google Docs when they're used to paper copies, email attachments, etc. I first stated using Google Docs myself a few years ago but I've never been effective at getting others to also use them. So I started inviting others to collaborate on a document, (not very successful). Now, I run meetings off my laptop and instead of a handout, I use Google Docs.
This has brought everyone on the team to the same place, using the same technology at the same time in real time. It's efficient, saves trees and therefore the environment, it's collaborative, efficient, dynamic, changes are seen immediately, anyone can edit the docs and most of all new media skills and knowledge (Web 2.0) is transfered to others in a peaceful manner.
No one was even hurt.
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
I still have a long way to go in verbalizing my ideas to others, often I lead by example and do things in hopes others will follow. Sometimes that works, sometimes not.
Example - How do you get your team to use Google Docs when they're used to paper copies, email attachments, etc. I first stated using Google Docs myself a few years ago but I've never been effective at getting others to also use them. So I started inviting others to collaborate on a document, (not very successful). Now, I run meetings off my laptop and instead of a handout, I use Google Docs.
This has brought everyone on the team to the same place, using the same technology at the same time in real time. It's efficient, saves trees and therefore the environment, it's collaborative, efficient, dynamic, changes are seen immediately, anyone can edit the docs and most of all new media skills and knowledge (Web 2.0) is transfered to others in a peaceful manner.
No one was even hurt.
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
To Do
Welcome back. You belong here.
I've never felt so excited about the events I'm involved in both inside and outside the church. But some weeks, the to do list gets long, especially post-Easter. I'm feeling a bit stressed. Here's the list:
To Do's...
1. Finish taking pictures of parents who volunteer at EL Foster, and post them on PTO bulletin board by next Monday
2. Meet with Jenny Piper (immigration advocate and speaker) regarding Immigration Seminar at EL Foster, Sat. April 25th. Invite Spanish church that meets at Foothills
3. Make 20+ fundraising phone calls for Gold Strike Festival, 8000 people, June 2009
4. Get Worship Training Seminar event planned and organized for May 2009
5. Meet with Danielle from Old Town regarding New Art
6. Put video together for "Ideation Conference" by May 15, 2009
7. Help Heather set-up benefit concert for needy family, June 2009
Better get moving. The #1 problem is that post-Easter I have ZERO energy.
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
I've never felt so excited about the events I'm involved in both inside and outside the church. But some weeks, the to do list gets long, especially post-Easter. I'm feeling a bit stressed. Here's the list:
To Do's...
1. Finish taking pictures of parents who volunteer at EL Foster, and post them on PTO bulletin board by next Monday
2. Meet with Jenny Piper (immigration advocate and speaker) regarding Immigration Seminar at EL Foster, Sat. April 25th. Invite Spanish church that meets at Foothills
3. Make 20+ fundraising phone calls for Gold Strike Festival, 8000 people, June 2009
4. Get Worship Training Seminar event planned and organized for May 2009
5. Meet with Danielle from Old Town regarding New Art
6. Put video together for "Ideation Conference" by May 15, 2009
7. Help Heather set-up benefit concert for needy family, June 2009
Better get moving. The #1 problem is that post-Easter I have ZERO energy.
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
Artists and Change
Welcome back. You belong here.
Today I spoke to a friend who's a painter. She has been involved in Art events in Arvada, CO but has found them lacking. I told her I agree, it's a problem I've seen at the Arts in Old Town meetings I attend, old school meets new school, money goes to the old and not enough to innovation.
She said she wants to help, but I'm not sure how to involve her. All I've got right now is a monthly meeting and she's not much for meetings, she's an artist.
What can be done? One thing I can do is to encourage her to get involved in our Summer Festival called "Gold Strike" (terrible name). Perhaps she can do a booth of her artwork, and include other like minded people.
Artists like her need the roads cleared and the paths to smell like new earth, to feel like there's hope and change is possible. Just talking today was a little bit of that, like we can make a difference. I told her that I'm hoping to encourage change by attending these boring meetings and to show that I'm committed to what's going on now yet have a passion for the new.
Our executive director also needs our help, I just don't always know how to help her. I think I need to meet with her 1-1 or with my friend and figure out if we can start our own branch called "New Art in Arvada". There are at least two projects we can help with, a mural in Old Town and an Art Walk.
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
Today I spoke to a friend who's a painter. She has been involved in Art events in Arvada, CO but has found them lacking. I told her I agree, it's a problem I've seen at the Arts in Old Town meetings I attend, old school meets new school, money goes to the old and not enough to innovation.
She said she wants to help, but I'm not sure how to involve her. All I've got right now is a monthly meeting and she's not much for meetings, she's an artist.
What can be done? One thing I can do is to encourage her to get involved in our Summer Festival called "Gold Strike" (terrible name). Perhaps she can do a booth of her artwork, and include other like minded people.
Artists like her need the roads cleared and the paths to smell like new earth, to feel like there's hope and change is possible. Just talking today was a little bit of that, like we can make a difference. I told her that I'm hoping to encourage change by attending these boring meetings and to show that I'm committed to what's going on now yet have a passion for the new.
Our executive director also needs our help, I just don't always know how to help her. I think I need to meet with her 1-1 or with my friend and figure out if we can start our own branch called "New Art in Arvada". There are at least two projects we can help with, a mural in Old Town and an Art Walk.
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
Dealing with Disappointment
Welcome back. You belong here.
Today I spoke to a friend who didn't get the job he was hoping for. He felt suited for the position, but it went to someone who had been in the organization longer. He felt pretty down and wondered what to do next.
What advice can you give in these situations? The first thing is to not make any drastic conclusions right away. Many times, the emotion and pain of not getting the job can cloud wise decisions. Second, seek wisdom, wait on God, seek council. Lastly, ask yourself, is there truth in the decision, is there something to learn from. But most of all, never stop believing!
For my friend, I agree he didn't have the longevity and perhaps this isn't quite the time, but I also see tremendous fit between the position and his skills. Somewhere, someday he will find his nitch.
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
Today I spoke to a friend who didn't get the job he was hoping for. He felt suited for the position, but it went to someone who had been in the organization longer. He felt pretty down and wondered what to do next.
What advice can you give in these situations? The first thing is to not make any drastic conclusions right away. Many times, the emotion and pain of not getting the job can cloud wise decisions. Second, seek wisdom, wait on God, seek council. Lastly, ask yourself, is there truth in the decision, is there something to learn from. But most of all, never stop believing!
For my friend, I agree he didn't have the longevity and perhaps this isn't quite the time, but I also see tremendous fit between the position and his skills. Somewhere, someday he will find his nitch.
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
As a Result of Your Feedback
Welcome back. You belong here.
Feedback is something our implementation team is trying to figure out. How do we close the feedback loop, from input, to analysis, response and notable change. One of the phrases we're beginning to use is the phrase "as a result of your feedback."
This tells the user that first your feedback was heard, second, your feedback is important to us, and lastly, your feedback actually did something. Of course, not all feedback is implemented but it's all useful.
Currently, we have an online feedback form for our weekend producers. We're now working on a feedback form for the audience.
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
Feedback is something our implementation team is trying to figure out. How do we close the feedback loop, from input, to analysis, response and notable change. One of the phrases we're beginning to use is the phrase "as a result of your feedback."
This tells the user that first your feedback was heard, second, your feedback is important to us, and lastly, your feedback actually did something. Of course, not all feedback is implemented but it's all useful.
Currently, we have an online feedback form for our weekend producers. We're now working on a feedback form for the audience.
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
Ideation Experience Challenge
Welcome back. You belong here.
I will be entering this challenge in July (if I get accepted) regarding Innovation and Ideation in the church. Here are some samples.
Here's the challenge: Your idea could be a concept, it could be a tool, it could be a way of looking at the world, a theory, a what-if or why not; it could be an enabling technology or a new way to get more done with less effort. Whatever it is, we want to hear it…we want to see it…we may even want to live it.
Because of the nature of this experience we are limiting the participants to 65 people. Therefore we need to get all applications before inviting this select group. The deadline for applications is May 15, 2009 and we will let you know of your acceptance or non-acceptance by May 19th.
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
I will be entering this challenge in July (if I get accepted) regarding Innovation and Ideation in the church. Here are some samples.
Here's the challenge: Your idea could be a concept, it could be a tool, it could be a way of looking at the world, a theory, a what-if or why not; it could be an enabling technology or a new way to get more done with less effort. Whatever it is, we want to hear it…we want to see it…we may even want to live it.
Because of the nature of this experience we are limiting the participants to 65 people. Therefore we need to get all applications before inviting this select group. The deadline for applications is May 15, 2009 and we will let you know of your acceptance or non-acceptance by May 19th.
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
Friday, April 10, 2009
Laver
Good Friday 09 at Foothills. A Labyrinth like experience, Friday, April 10th, 5-9pm. 400 walked through.
Monday, April 06, 2009
Innovation is Sexy Again
Welcome back. You belong here.
Innovation will pay. It will be on the TOP of every organization's money making, job making, reformation list.
One of my favorite parts of the interview with Department of Education Secretary Arne Duncan was that by April 17th "we want to be the place that builds up innovation and new practices. We want to shine the spotlight on people who are driving dramatic reform."
More Duncan: "Why haven't we gone to where we need to go in education? Money, courage, adult dysfunction....We are pushing to see adults behave differently...If all we do is replicate the same fights we're not going to get very far...We will put more money on the table for those who think and behave differently." He also spoke of the Innovation Fund.
Have a great day. Into the future,
davidT
Innovation will pay. It will be on the TOP of every organization's money making, job making, reformation list.
One of my favorite parts of the interview with Department of Education Secretary Arne Duncan was that by April 17th "we want to be the place that builds up innovation and new practices. We want to shine the spotlight on people who are driving dramatic reform."
More Duncan: "Why haven't we gone to where we need to go in education? Money, courage, adult dysfunction....We are pushing to see adults behave differently...If all we do is replicate the same fights we're not going to get very far...We will put more money on the table for those who think and behave differently." He also spoke of the Innovation Fund.
Have a great day. Into the future,
davidT
The White House/Education Site
Welcome back. You belong here.
I don't know if it's Obama or the web or both, but for the first time ever, I am actually reading the White House website and finding useful information such as the President's Agenda (think today's Turkey speech).
There I found links the Department of Education Secretary Arne Duncan and a recent video stream re. the $44 Billion Education Recovery Act and how much money is coming to Colorado. Good stuff.
Have a great day. Into the future,
davidT
I don't know if it's Obama or the web or both, but for the first time ever, I am actually reading the White House website and finding useful information such as the President's Agenda (think today's Turkey speech).
There I found links the Department of Education Secretary Arne Duncan and a recent video stream re. the $44 Billion Education Recovery Act and how much money is coming to Colorado. Good stuff.
Have a great day. Into the future,
davidT
I Know C++
Welcome back. You belong here.
I remember when I graduated college in CS Engineering (CSULB ,'93), basically writing code in C and C++, they posted a list of top earning jobs with CSE at the top at $80k back in 1993.
It seems I could be making much more than that now even in this economy writing Apps for Apple.
Have a great day. Into the future,
davidT
I remember when I graduated college in CS Engineering (CSULB ,'93), basically writing code in C and C++, they posted a list of top earning jobs with CSE at the top at $80k back in 1993.
It seems I could be making much more than that now even in this economy writing Apps for Apple.
Have a great day. Into the future,
davidT
John Hope Franklin on Civil Rights
Welcome back. You belong here.
It never ceases to amaze me the eloquency combined with the strength of men like John Hope Franklin "The Prince", who died March 09 at age 94.
Here are some of his quotes, from a recent Charlie Rose interview
1. On Civil Rights - the failure of the civil rights movement today is not the lack of leadership but that it's not about getting people into a restaurant, but about the person being able to order something at the restaurant, because they have the economic means to do so.
Others
- On the name "African American" - I don't like it, rather it be Negroes. We've been called Colored, Negroes, Blacks, and now African Americans
- On Race - to try to persuade this country to see the past and concede that not enough has been done, to be prepared to do more towards unity and to carry this country forward as a nation undivided racially
- How to you change minds/attitudes? Through leadership and action
- On moving into a White neighborhood in Brooklyn - When they saw I was civilized, didn't run down the neighborhood and I added to the neighborhood, people began to treat me as part of the community. In the end some even said they'd miss me. Even if their hearts weren't changed, I achieved the right to move into a place where I can afford. If they hate me for it, that's their problem. But every American should be able to live where they want to live.
- We haven't really tested integration. Anyone who says they want separatism, hasn't lived through separatism
- Orchids are not tropical, they grow in Michigan, NY and South Carolina, the variety is endless, durable, hardy, require knowledge
- What Would you want said of you - That I was a serious, skilled and able teacher
- My Students - I've learned a great deal from my students in technology, their reactions, they live in a world I'm only slightly acquainted with, I was limited by the kind of education I had, context, the lack of embracing certain fields in HS and college, they were linguists, travelled, burning desire for knowledge, they had perspectives I did not have, information, reactions to experiences and they shared these things with me. I was learning from them all the time.
Have a great day. Into the future,
davidT
It never ceases to amaze me the eloquency combined with the strength of men like John Hope Franklin "The Prince", who died March 09 at age 94.
Here are some of his quotes, from a recent Charlie Rose interview
1. On Civil Rights - the failure of the civil rights movement today is not the lack of leadership but that it's not about getting people into a restaurant, but about the person being able to order something at the restaurant, because they have the economic means to do so.
Others
- On the name "African American" - I don't like it, rather it be Negroes. We've been called Colored, Negroes, Blacks, and now African Americans
- On Race - to try to persuade this country to see the past and concede that not enough has been done, to be prepared to do more towards unity and to carry this country forward as a nation undivided racially
- How to you change minds/attitudes? Through leadership and action
- On moving into a White neighborhood in Brooklyn - When they saw I was civilized, didn't run down the neighborhood and I added to the neighborhood, people began to treat me as part of the community. In the end some even said they'd miss me. Even if their hearts weren't changed, I achieved the right to move into a place where I can afford. If they hate me for it, that's their problem. But every American should be able to live where they want to live.
- We haven't really tested integration. Anyone who says they want separatism, hasn't lived through separatism
- Orchids are not tropical, they grow in Michigan, NY and South Carolina, the variety is endless, durable, hardy, require knowledge
- What Would you want said of you - That I was a serious, skilled and able teacher
- My Students - I've learned a great deal from my students in technology, their reactions, they live in a world I'm only slightly acquainted with, I was limited by the kind of education I had, context, the lack of embracing certain fields in HS and college, they were linguists, travelled, burning desire for knowledge, they had perspectives I did not have, information, reactions to experiences and they shared these things with me. I was learning from them all the time.
Have a great day. Into the future,
davidT
Meet N Greet
Welcome back. You belong here.
A new idea we're putting into place in May is a Meet-N-Greet for new artisans (not the coolest name). Usually, people that join our creative team get to know the leaders and each other pretty organically which is the best way.
But I also think it's good to do something semi-casual, where we can meet each other, ask questions, have a few drinks, a few laughs, go through the basic vision of the team and answer any questions the new artisans might have.
This allows the new people to meet the existing group in a bit more formal yet still casual way.
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
A new idea we're putting into place in May is a Meet-N-Greet for new artisans (not the coolest name). Usually, people that join our creative team get to know the leaders and each other pretty organically which is the best way.
But I also think it's good to do something semi-casual, where we can meet each other, ask questions, have a few drinks, a few laughs, go through the basic vision of the team and answer any questions the new artisans might have.
This allows the new people to meet the existing group in a bit more formal yet still casual way.
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
Sunday, April 05, 2009
Easter Week Music Plans
Welcome back. You belong here.
This week is Easter and for the creative teams of most churches, this is a big week. How to make a timeless story, fresh, meaningful, unchanged yet in tune with today's questions and needs. Things are pretty much in place for us. What am I looking forward to?
First, the Seder Dinner on Thursday night, I'm looking forward to seeing this come together, we have over 125 signed up. It's the first time for Foothills.
Second, Good Friday, this year it's called "The Dwelling Place Within" it's a labyrinth experience, open house from 5-9pm. Our team has put together a tabernacle walk through for the evening. Third, 6am Sunrise Survice outdoors in Denver, CO. I'm looking forward to doing it, it'll be cold, maybe very cold, but it should be fun.
Easter Services:
Seder Dinner - Thursday, April 9th, 6pm
Good Friday Experience - Friday, April 10th, 5-9pm
Easter Sunday: 6am, 8am, 9:30am, 11am
This week is Easter and for the creative teams of most churches, this is a big week. How to make a timeless story, fresh, meaningful, unchanged yet in tune with today's questions and needs. Things are pretty much in place for us. What am I looking forward to?
First, the Seder Dinner on Thursday night, I'm looking forward to seeing this come together, we have over 125 signed up. It's the first time for Foothills.
Second, Good Friday, this year it's called "The Dwelling Place Within" it's a labyrinth experience, open house from 5-9pm. Our team has put together a tabernacle walk through for the evening. Third, 6am Sunrise Survice outdoors in Denver, CO. I'm looking forward to doing it, it'll be cold, maybe very cold, but it should be fun.
Easter Services:
Seder Dinner - Thursday, April 9th, 6pm
Good Friday Experience - Friday, April 10th, 5-9pm
Easter Sunday: 6am, 8am, 9:30am, 11am
Architecture
Welcome back. You belong here.
It was nice to drive through NM, AZ, CA, UT, CO in the last week or so, you see a lot of architecture. Probably the architecture I enjoyed the most was in Santa Fe, NM. The houses, new or old, all have the same Santa Fe look, and instead of being on a flat surface, they are on the side of a hill.
I was impressed how new homes all fit the look of this traditional city. It would be easy for a developer (and I'm sure many have tried), to change Santa Fe, to make it more Denver or LA. That would be crazy. Instead, there's a consistency to this city that is very attractive.
Have a great day,
Into the future,
davidT
It was nice to drive through NM, AZ, CA, UT, CO in the last week or so, you see a lot of architecture. Probably the architecture I enjoyed the most was in Santa Fe, NM. The houses, new or old, all have the same Santa Fe look, and instead of being on a flat surface, they are on the side of a hill.
I was impressed how new homes all fit the look of this traditional city. It would be easy for a developer (and I'm sure many have tried), to change Santa Fe, to make it more Denver or LA. That would be crazy. Instead, there's a consistency to this city that is very attractive.
Have a great day,
Into the future,
davidT
Saturday, April 04, 2009
So Raise the Fees
Welcome back. You belong here.
Denver-LB flight can't stop! So raise the fees! JetBlue considers leaving Long Beach Airport.
Have a great day,
Into the future,
davidT
Denver-LB flight can't stop! So raise the fees! JetBlue considers leaving Long Beach Airport.
Have a great day,
Into the future,
davidT
My Travel Summary
Welcome back. You belong here.
Currently in New Mexico (Sheridan Hotel), we drove (all 5 of us, 3 children) 13hrs today from LA to Albuquerque, NM (nice town, btw). Tomorrow we drive into Denver, CO. Roads should be pretty clear but very cold (30's).
Have a great day,
Into the future,
davidT
Currently in New Mexico (Sheridan Hotel), we drove (all 5 of us, 3 children) 13hrs today from LA to Albuquerque, NM (nice town, btw). Tomorrow we drive into Denver, CO. Roads should be pretty clear but very cold (30's).
Have a great day,
Into the future,
davidT
Friday, April 03, 2009
I Could Be Totally Wrong
Welcome back. You belong here.
When collaborating with creative types it's very important (especially if you are the default team leader), to let everyone know you could be wrong. Sometimes a person can express an opinion that can hurt other people's feelings or quench the creative process.
Adding a phrase like "you know I could be totally wrong here" can help keep lines of communication open.
Have a great day,
Into the future,
davidT
When collaborating with creative types it's very important (especially if you are the default team leader), to let everyone know you could be wrong. Sometimes a person can express an opinion that can hurt other people's feelings or quench the creative process.
Adding a phrase like "you know I could be totally wrong here" can help keep lines of communication open.
Have a great day,
Into the future,
davidT
Twitter Training
Welcome back. You belong here.
Today I did a Twitter tutorial for a friend. He didn't buy it, but I did answer his biggest question which was, "why do I need it?" I told him he'd have to figure out the why, but here are some reasons why he might want to consider it:
1. Share information
2. Network
3. Training
4. Feeling that others want to know what you're up to
Have a great day,
Into the future,
davidT
Today I did a Twitter tutorial for a friend. He didn't buy it, but I did answer his biggest question which was, "why do I need it?" I told him he'd have to figure out the why, but here are some reasons why he might want to consider it:
1. Share information
2. Network
3. Training
4. Feeling that others want to know what you're up to
Have a great day,
Into the future,
davidT
Thursday, April 02, 2009
Guatemala, Denver and Spanish Classes
Welcome back. You belong here.
An interesting project out there is bringing together Spanish teachers from Guatemala and Nicaragua with children of EL Foster's dual immersion program. There's a huge need and market in this area. We would use technology such as Skype and make it very affordable.
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
An interesting project out there is bringing together Spanish teachers from Guatemala and Nicaragua with children of EL Foster's dual immersion program. There's a huge need and market in this area. We would use technology such as Skype and make it very affordable.
Have a great day.
Into the future,
davidT
Big Announcement: New Blog Focus
Welcome back. You belong here.
Ok, I just made up my mind in the last 5mns. The official focus of this blog will now be:
COMMUNICATION, INNOVATION and COLLABORATION...bringing people together.
Starting today, this blog will deal with "bringing people together for communication and innovation..." It brings together the great passions of mine, yeap, communication, innovation and collaboration (bringing people together). Genius.Even the header of this blog has changed, check it out. Of course, I will still write about my family and random things once in a while.
I like it already.
Have a great day,
Into the future,
davidT
Ok, I just made up my mind in the last 5mns. The official focus of this blog will now be:
COMMUNICATION, INNOVATION and COLLABORATION...bringing people together.
Starting today, this blog will deal with "bringing people together for communication and innovation..." It brings together the great passions of mine, yeap, communication, innovation and collaboration (bringing people together). Genius.Even the header of this blog has changed, check it out. Of course, I will still write about my family and random things once in a while.
I like it already.
Have a great day,
Into the future,
davidT
Wednesdays, 12-4pm
Welcome back. You belong here.
The other day a friend was telling me he wants to quit his job and try something different. I told him that instead of quitting and trying something new and untested, he should start by talking to his current boss and ask for permission to network with others Wednesdays from 12-4pm. I don't mean that he's getting time off to go look for a new job, that'd be a stupid boss!
What I mean is why not make his organization better, by making himself better. And how does he do that? By testing his skills on others.
I recommend he take some time every week, 3-4 hours a week to network, to mentor another company and see how he does. If he does well, every one wins. He feels more confident and like he's following his dream, the company has a better and happier employee who's making the company look good with others, and the new people are glad to have an expert in hand.
It's the Google 20% rule, at Google you can spend 20% of your time on "things you care about." They find that 100% of their innovation, comes from this 20%. I do this in my current job and many of my "great ideas" come from this 20%.
Win/Win Baby.
Have a great day,
Into the future,
davidT
The other day a friend was telling me he wants to quit his job and try something different. I told him that instead of quitting and trying something new and untested, he should start by talking to his current boss and ask for permission to network with others Wednesdays from 12-4pm. I don't mean that he's getting time off to go look for a new job, that'd be a stupid boss!
What I mean is why not make his organization better, by making himself better. And how does he do that? By testing his skills on others.
I recommend he take some time every week, 3-4 hours a week to network, to mentor another company and see how he does. If he does well, every one wins. He feels more confident and like he's following his dream, the company has a better and happier employee who's making the company look good with others, and the new people are glad to have an expert in hand.
It's the Google 20% rule, at Google you can spend 20% of your time on "things you care about." They find that 100% of their innovation, comes from this 20%. I do this in my current job and many of my "great ideas" come from this 20%.
Win/Win Baby.
Have a great day,
Into the future,
davidT
Buy EJ's
Welcome back. You belong here.
Today I spoke to a friend who's trying to figure out if he likes his job or not. He's being offered a different position within his company, but it doesn't sound like him to me. I told him, what's your Big Adventure! Mine is to someday run for City Council or start my own Creativity and Communication Business. He didn't have an answer.
I said to him, "why don't you seek a one million dollar donor, go to EJ Malloy's, ask to speak to the manager and then the owner and tell him, I'd like to buy your store." He lit up and said, "I think I can do that...."
Have a great day,
Into the future,
davidT
Today I spoke to a friend who's trying to figure out if he likes his job or not. He's being offered a different position within his company, but it doesn't sound like him to me. I told him, what's your Big Adventure! Mine is to someday run for City Council or start my own Creativity and Communication Business. He didn't have an answer.
I said to him, "why don't you seek a one million dollar donor, go to EJ Malloy's, ask to speak to the manager and then the owner and tell him, I'd like to buy your store." He lit up and said, "I think I can do that...."
Have a great day,
Into the future,
davidT
How Often
Welcome back. You belong here.
My blogging here has slowed down this year. I'm also blogging at Real Life Stimulus where I chronicle stories of life transformation in my every day life.
Some of my friends blog trivial stuff 4-5x/day, others blog good stuff 1x/week. I blog stuff about 1-2x/month. I think I need to pick up the pace and start making stuff up (as long as it's focused around my theme which is still pending).
Have a great day,
Into the future,
davidT
My blogging here has slowed down this year. I'm also blogging at Real Life Stimulus where I chronicle stories of life transformation in my every day life.
Some of my friends blog trivial stuff 4-5x/day, others blog good stuff 1x/week. I blog stuff about 1-2x/month. I think I need to pick up the pace and start making stuff up (as long as it's focused around my theme which is still pending).
Have a great day,
Into the future,
davidT
Focus of this Blog
Welcome back. You belong here.
I need to focus this blog around a certain topic, but I'm not sure which. So far, this blog has been a collection of themes without a particular focus.
So here are some possible themes for my blog:
- Honesty and Hope (hmmmm, I've never been able to be honest in a blog)
- Roots and the Future (thoughts on my childhood and how it shapes me today)
- A Politician in the Making (someday, I'd like to be in politics)
- Connections I See (stories of how I see things connecting, people, thoughts, organizations)
- Technology and Music (yawwwwnnnnn....)
- Communication (probably my favorite so far)
- Creating Open Systems for Maximum Impact (another favorite)
Well, there you have it. As you can see I'm lost. But I'll keep thinking about this.
Have a great day,
Into the future,
davidT
I need to focus this blog around a certain topic, but I'm not sure which. So far, this blog has been a collection of themes without a particular focus.
So here are some possible themes for my blog:
- Honesty and Hope (hmmmm, I've never been able to be honest in a blog)
- Roots and the Future (thoughts on my childhood and how it shapes me today)
- A Politician in the Making (someday, I'd like to be in politics)
- Connections I See (stories of how I see things connecting, people, thoughts, organizations)
- Technology and Music (yawwwwnnnnn....)
- Communication (probably my favorite so far)
- Creating Open Systems for Maximum Impact (another favorite)
Well, there you have it. As you can see I'm lost. But I'll keep thinking about this.
Have a great day,
Into the future,
davidT
Remembering
Welcome back. You belong here.
Last night I went out with a good friend and he asked me some questions that made me remember some pretty painful stuff. It was good to let it all out, the hurt, the pain. In the end he told me I was ready to let it all out, and that perhaps prior to that I hadn't been able to do so.
I think he was right. It felt true, good, true, accurate, raw but true to say what I said. It was interesting.
Have a great day,
Into the future,
davidT
Last night I went out with a good friend and he asked me some questions that made me remember some pretty painful stuff. It was good to let it all out, the hurt, the pain. In the end he told me I was ready to let it all out, and that perhaps prior to that I hadn't been able to do so.
I think he was right. It felt true, good, true, accurate, raw but true to say what I said. It was interesting.
Have a great day,
Into the future,
davidT
@dtrigueros - Twitter
Welcome back. You belong here.
A few months ago I officially deleted my Facebook account and have been on Twitter exclusively since then. Twitter just makes better sense to me. You can follow me on Twitter @dtrigueros.
Have a great day,
Into the future,
davidT
A few months ago I officially deleted my Facebook account and have been on Twitter exclusively since then. Twitter just makes better sense to me. You can follow me on Twitter @dtrigueros.
Have a great day,
Into the future,
davidT
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)