imapMyTeam Blog

Static Document – Dynamic Environment

Once created, iMapMyTeam reports don’t change much. Oh sure, as the developer we may tweak language a bit to clarify, make minor adjustments based on client feedback but they remain fairly static because they are written accurately to what the data means based on our years of experience.

However, I find that from time to time – I get surprised in a way I don’t want to be surprised.

I’ll be engaged in discussion with a client, they begin to share an account of something that has happened recently, and I ask “did you use ___fill in the blank___ iMap report to help you with that situation?”

Their response goes something like this. “I’ve looked at that report before”. Or “I’ve worked with John Doe/Sally Doe for 10 years and read the reports once a while back when we first went on the system.”

Yes the report is similar – the issue is that the person is in a dynamic environment that is constantly changing.

At any particular time that dynamic environment may or may not be in sync with that person’s motivational need. It is the same person, but are they in the same exact environment and situation as when you last looked at the iMap report?

Chances are slim that they are the same, most everything everywhere is being shaken up. What was important or relevant in that report 6 months or a year ago is different today.

For the most part, iMapMyTeam reports are informing you what to do relative to a person’s motivational need. The need is the filter of how they perceive the world around them. It is the yardstick they use to measure if they are being supported or not. Needs are not negotiable.

Without the needs being met, the person shifts into their stress reactive behavior.

Sitting with your direct report or colleague and asking “right now, which is the most important sentence in this report for you?” is always a great question.  Even if you think you know, ask it and you will probably be surprised by their answer.