Use a Common Language

Motivation

The governance system must provide a mechanism for coordination and engagement between groups. This requires a mechanism of shared learning. An example of shared learning would be discovery and dissemination of good practice. To achieve this, we must have a common language. Collaboration without a common language is only noise before failure.1

Consider these first

• Understand What is Being Considered

Illustrative description

Maps allow people with different aptitudes to work together. For example, marketing, operations, finance, and IT can create a common understanding.

Detailed description

Use Maps instead of using many different ways of explaining the same thing. Use maps between different functions of the business. Use Common Symbols on those maps. Use Common Terms when talking about maps.

Practices

• Use Maps
• Use Common Symbols
• Use Common Terms

Consider next

• Challenge Assumptions