The Energy Equation

Chapter 3Shared Space

A few years ago I challenged myself and my team at Advance Consulting with a question. What do we call that thing we help clients achieve that everybody senses and appreciates but no one has a name for? I threw out some examples to get our creative juices flowing.

• A team that is firing on all cylinders, seems steeped in creativity and innovative ideas, and has a graceful productivity that comes from everyone working in concert
• A conversation between two people to understand and solve a common business problem, who are clear on their shared goal, build on each other's thoughts and ideas, and achieve a common understanding and vision in a way that leaves them feeling energized and even joyful
• A business process that just works, where people who have the required expertise each perform their jobs well, are available at the right times, and execute with skill and camaraderie, unencumbered by negative outside influences

The conversation with my team went on for weeks as we struggled to find a name that captured the essence of “the thing.” Then one day one of my colleagues mentioned the phrase “shared space.” That was it. The name stuck. In this chapter we explore shared space, including methods for designing and implementing it, along with strategies for creating it.

The Power of Shared Space

I describe shared space as a positive energy field where effective work, creativity, and innovation can happen. Shared space gives those involved in any work effort ...