The TYS project team presents a Decision Point 2 'straw model' to managers in a group setting

This pathfinder authority developed the evidence presented at Decision Point 2 in a way that was defendable to all challenges and that galvanised the authority into action.
 
The purpose of Decision Point 2 is to show senior managers, in a multi-agency setting, information about present services for young people that is defendable and galvanises the authority into action.  

The project team ensured this by presenting a 'straw model' presentation to managers in a group setting, rather than on a one-to-one basis which was not possible due to timescales.

The result was a stimulating discussion that informed improvements to the final presentation. For example, the initial evidence showed that fear of gangs was at the top of the list of priorities for young people. This was challenged as it had never been considered a major issue. Further consultation with young people confirmed the finding with further confidence.

The straw model also helped the team prepare to defend its evidence. For example, there was a view that one agency in particular needed to change. The team was asked if this view was general or whether one or two high scores were skewing the result? The team had analysed the data and knew the results were general. 

Having to defend the data and conclusions robustly meant the team was better prepared for challenges in Decision Point 2, and was able to describe in detail how each conclusion had been reached. The senior management team were engaged and galvanised by the final result. 

Further information
Relevant activities for this case study include developing a Decision Point 2 straw model, which is part of the activities in the Discover stage.

Click for further case studies relevant to the Discover stage of the targeted youth support change process.