Teams are operating in silos, unclear on roles, and overwhelmed by competing priorities. Communication breaks down, collaboration stalls, and burnout grows. This stage allows the team to reveal the cracks and opens the door for honest reflection and repair.

🔍 The image shows a root cause analysis we used with teams. Goal —> Identify root causes and build psychological safety.

Teams begin to align around shared norms, expectations, and communication routines. Leadership is more intentional, and staff see their roles in the bigger picture. Structures begin to replace chaos.

🛠 The image shows a team charter developed collaboratively to ensure norms during all meetings.

Goal —> Establish strong foundations through inclusive facilitation and identification of team norms.

The team works with high trust and clear direction. Cross-functional collaboration thrives, workflows are predictable, and meetings lead to action. Everyone knows the “why,” “how,” and “who” behind the work.

🚀 The image shows a team planning session (Chalk Talk) during which all team members gave feedback on the priorities for the next year

Goal —> Strengthen consistent systems and role clarity that scale.

The team functions well and has evolved. New members onboard smoothly, feedback is welcomed, and leadership is shared. Systems are embedded deeply enough to live beyond any one person.

🌟 The image shows a quote directly from a client about how the Collaborative Roots founder supported the teachers in a shared culture of inclusion.

Goal —> Empower teams to self-reflect, adapt, and grow without external dependence.