During 1994, the national Extension system engaged in focused dialogue to position the organization for the future. Defining boundaries or updating the mission, vision, values, and strategic issues occurred through a search for "common ground." Eight challenges were identified and are key to a successful future. Three lessons for how the system might engage the total community evolved: (a) when asked--people respond, (b) create a climate for discussion, and (c) build on evolving changes. A quality product results when stakeholders care about the issues and know that their ideas are valued.
Anderson et al. (Tue,) studied this question.