Map of the Collaborative Process

Stage 3: Brainstorming and Option Development 

Tasks:

• Brainstorm all possible options on each issue
• Compare options to interests
• Refine interests as needed
• Prioritize options

Typical Chronology:

• Team phone conference before each joint meeting to prepare agenda, discuss status
• 4-7 way meetings to brainstorm options and compare against interests
  • For child issues, Parties-Coaches- Child Specialist
  • For financial issues, Parties-Attorneys-Financial Consultant-Coach(es)
• 2-3 way meetings (Party-Coach-Attorney) to further refine interests as needed and to explore priorities
• 4-7 way meetings to prioritize options
• Party-professional and team debriefings after each meeting
• Prepare and circulate minutes after each meeting