Before I start with a new client, I usually jot down a few notes outlining my first impressions, preconceived ideas and what I think I will find. I often refer back to those initial notes, as they sometimes help me to stay on task as the risk of distraction threatens to take over in the new and needy organisation.
I was privileged to be asked to conduct a review of the Central Christchurch Development Unit (CCDU) – the organisation within the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority (CERA) responsible for leading the rebuild of the Christchurch CBD. The day before I started, I went for a walk around the dilapidated city. This is what I wrote that night.