Minnesota Institute of Public Health

The end of a year and anticipation of a new year triggers my thinking about accomplishments, lessons learned, and expectations for the new year. Its been my experience as Executive Director that an organization is most efficient and effective when expectations are clear.

Beyond the ‘Big Rocks’ of clear Mission, Vision Statement, Plan and Tactics to strategically move forward, is the day-to-day communication of expectations of staff and consultants need to be as clear as possible. Staff need support in addressing key questions such as, “What do I need to do to succeed? What will signal problems and obstacles to success?”. At MIPH we work hard every day to help make Best Practices in prevention more of a new norm than a unique exception. We strive to communicate a culture of accomplishment, respect, creativity and courage to reflect our Vision to be an innovative leader in bridging public health research and practice.

New Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota President and CEO Pat Geraghty recently addressed leaders within the organization, including proud affiliate MIPH. He reminded us of a need to focus and refine Expectations. Using the acronym PADU was a helpful learning experience.

PADU
What is Preferred?
What is Acceptable?
What is Discouraged?
What is Unacceptable?

Being clear about what results and processes are Preferred opens the doors for excellence, and for rewarding staff who excel. The corporate goals cascade into daily work, where it matters.

Being clear about what is Acceptable work and achievement helps people guide their own work performance, consistent with goals and Mission.

Similarly, being clear about what is Discouraged, and what is Unacceptable permits daily work focus and great progress in tracking, reporting, being accountable, interactive, and part of a team.

I believe we owe our colleagues and co-workers candor, clarity, and clear direction. The best plans seem to include Clear Expectations. In 2009, MIPH commits to every effort to stay the course of communicating Expectations within our organization.

How does your organization develop and communicate Expectations?