Creating and Using Templates in Goalscape

Consultants and coaches can define their strategy in Goalscape and use it as a template: for each client (or athlete) they create a customized version of the goalscape and share it privately with that client, providing exceptional added value to their work.

To do this, build a generic version of your strategy as a goalscape (project). Include the word 'template' in the Main Goal name (you may also want to use a datestamp).

In the Goalscape web app you can easily Duplicate an existing goalscape to use it as a template: in the Home screen, click the ellipsis (three dots) menu for any goalscape and select 'Duplicate':

Note that you can choose whether to include attribute information from the original goalscape (Progress, Importance, Date, etc). Since Comments include email addresses, for GDPR reasons they are not included in the duplicate.

By default the duplicate goalscape will have '[Copy]' appended to the Main Goal name to differentiate it from the original; you can change that in the Duplication Options screen, to identify the new copy as a specific instance of your template and prevent any confusion. Tip: use the client's name at the start of the Main Goal name to identify that goalscape in the list in your Home screen and in its tab label.

At an initial 'workshop' session with each client, start with a fresh copy of your template, personalized with the client's name. During your discussion, customize it based on their specific goals, resources and timescales. You can do this in a face-to-face session, or in a webmeeting using screenshare, both looking at the same goalscape.

Share the goalscape with the person (or multiple people within a client organisation) – giving them Administrator, Editor or Viewer access.

Use the shared goalscape to communicate about any issues and track progress. Since everyone involved always sees the latest version, the review process is ongoing, which saves a lot of time in periodic meetings (and may even make most of those meetings unnecessary).

In your work with each client you can add new goals as required (and delete completed or dropped ones) and adjust priorities to adapt to changing circumstances. Some challenges take a long time, so identify goals for each quarter (or month) and use Tags ('Now' and 'Next') to focus on immediate tasks. And always celebrate the wins to reinforce everyone's motivation!

You will also find generally applicable shortcuts and learn new ways of doing certain tasks based on new solution paths found and feedback (from clients, coaches, athletes and others). As you refine your process(es), remember to update your original template with any enhancements, since that is the one you will be using for future similar projects.

May you and all your clients, coaches and athletes achieve great goals!