Q: What makes the MAKESHIFT approach different from other transformation methodologies?

The MAKESHIFT Transformation Journey™ stands out through its:

• Progressive values - Integrate equity and inclusion into system design

• Systematic structure - Three-phase approach ensures nothing falls through the cracks

• Dual focus - Address both systems and cultural elements

• Adaptable framework - Customizable to your organization's specific needs

• Practical tools - Concrete resources that translate theory into action

Q: Do we need to implement all three phases (ARC, SHIFT, RISE), or can we choose individual components?

While the three phases work powerfully together, I design engagements based on your specific needs and readiness:

• Begin with ARC™ if you need strategic clarity

• Start with SHIFT™ if you have a vision but need implementation planning

• Jump to RISE™ if you have a plan but need activation support

• Mix and match components to address your specific challenges

Each phase delivers standalone value while building toward comprehensive transformation.

Q: How long does the full transformation process typically take?

The timeline varies based on your organization's size, complexity, and scope of transformation:

• ARC™ phase: Typically 4-8 weeks

• SHIFT™ phase: Typically 6-12 weeks

• RISE™ phase: Typically 3-12 months

I'll work with you to develop a realistic timeline based on your specific needs, urgency, and capacity for change.

Q: How do you measure success in transformation initiatives?

My approach to measurement includes:

1. Early alignment on success metrics during the ARC™ phase

2. Comprehensive metrics developed during the SHIFT™ phase

3. Regular monitoring throughout the RISE™ phase

4. Evolution of metrics as transformation progresses

Q: What level of leadership involvement is required?

Successful transformation requires appropriate leadership engagement:

• Executive sponsor: Critical for all phases

• Leadership team: Active involvement in ARC™, regular touchpoints in SHIFT™ and RISE™

• Mid-level management: Increasing involvement through SHIFT™ and RISE™

• Frontline teams: Primary focus during RISE™ implementation

I'll help design the right engagement approach for your leadership structure.

Q: How do you handle resistance to change?

Resistance is a natural part of transformation but can be lessened with proactive steps:

• Early identification of potential resistance points during ARC™

• Action planning to address concerns during SHIFT™

• Proactive listening and management of emerging feedback during RISE™

Remember, it is important to view resistance as valuable information rather than an obstacle—it highlights areas needing attention and often contains important insights.

Q: What resources will we need to dedicate to this process?

Resource requirements vary by scope and phase:

• ARC™ phase: Primarily leadership time for interviews and workshops

• SHIFT™ phase: Cross-functional planning team time

• RISE™ phase: Implementation team time and resources

We will work together to:

• Identify the right resources for each phase

• Use existing resources efficiently

• Scale resource commitments appropriately

• Make strategic decisions about investment levels

Q: How do you ensure sustainability of the transformation?

Sustainability is built into MAKESHIFT Transformation Journey™:

1. ARC™ phase: Creating the compelling "why" that drives ongoing commitment

2. SHIFT™ phase: Designing systems and structures that reinforce new approaches

3. RISE™ phase: Building internal capabilities and embedding practices

The RISE™ phase specifically focuses on:

• Transferring knowledge to your team

• Building internal capabilities

• Creating feedback and adaptation mechanisms

• Establishing ongoing governance and evolution

Q: What's your approach to working with internal teams?

I wholeheartedly believe in collaboration rather than prescription:

• I work alongside your teams, not apart from them

• Two-way knowledge transfer happens throughout the engagement

• I will adapt my level of hands-on support based on your needs

• My goal is to build your internal capabilities, not create dependency

Q: How do you customize the approach for different organizations?

Every engagement begins with understanding your unique context:

• Industry dynamics and challenges

• Organizational culture and history

• Existing capabilities and systems

• Specific transformation goals

• Resource realities

I then adapt my approach to fit your specific situation while maintaining the core structure that ensures success.

Q: What types of organizations do you typically work with?

I work across sectors with organizations that:

• Value progressive approaches to transformation

• Seek meaningful, sustainable change

• Are ready to examine both systems and culture

• Understand the need for both vision and execution

• Are not afraid of challenging questions and ideas

My approach scales from small nonprofits to large corporations, with customization based on size, industry, and transformation scope.

Q: How do we get started?

The process begins with a conversation:

1. Discovery call to understand your specific needs

2. Proposal outlining a customized approach

3. Kickoff meeting to align expectations and launch the process

Reach out to schedule your initial discovery conversation.

Q: What if we decide we need a different level of service after we've already begun working together?

My engagement model is designed to be flexible and responsive to your evolving needs:

• Scaling up: If you begin with one phase and decide you need more comprehensive support, it is possible to expand the engagement to include additional phases or services.

• Adjusting scope: I build checkpoints throughout each phase specifically to evaluate whether the current approach is meeting your needs and make adjustments if necessary.

• Changing direction: If organizational priorities shift during our engagement, we can adapt our approach accordingly.

Our relationship is a partnership that evolves as your needs change—ensuring you get exactly the support you need when you need it.

Q: We're not quite sure what level of support we need. What should we consider before deciding?

When determining the right level of support, consider these key factors:

1. Internal capacity:

   • Do you have team members who can lead implementation?

   • Does your team have bandwidth for additional initiatives?

   • Do you have experience with similar transformation efforts?

2. Transformation scope:

   • How complex is the desired change?

   • How many parts of the organization will be affected?

   • What is the timeline for implementation?

3. Organizational readiness:

   • How aligned is leadership around the need for change?

   • How receptive is your culture to new approaches?

   • What other initiatives or changes are currently underway?

4. Strategic clarity:

   • Do you have a clear vision for what needs to change?

   • Are your transformation goals well-defined?

   • Do you have consensus on priorities?

I recommend starting with a discovery conversation to assess these factors together. Based on that discussion, I can recommend the right entry point and service level for your specific situation.

Q: What is a Fractional Executive and when/why would we need to engage one instead of an Advisor?

A fractional executive takes on an executive role on a part-time basis. It's a cost-effective leadership solution that has grown in demand by helping organizations access highly skilled leaders to support them during times of growth and change, special projects, or leadership gaps without conducting lengthy interviews or making a long-term commitment.

Unlike advisors, fractional executives embed themselves within an organization as if they were a full-time employee, digging into problems, identifying solutions, and implementing those solutions.

Areas of MAKESHIFT Expertise:

• Fractional Chief of Staff

• Fractional PMO (non-technical)

• Fractional Equity + Inclusion

Consider a Fractional Executive when:

• You need hands-on leadership rather than just guidance

• You have a leadership gap during transition periods

• You need specialized expertise for a significant/enterprise-wide initiative

• Your budget doesn't support a full-time executive hire

• You want to "try before you buy" for a potential permanent role

Fractional Executive service integrates seamlessly with the MAKESHIFT Transformation Journey™, providing not just the methodology but also the leadership to drive implementation.