The Anecdote of Success - a Simple Tool

When beginning an initiative, project, or releasing an RFP how can you convey the vision of success to the audience? In some instances, a request-for-proposal has a sterile feel and fails to clearly convey the nuances of what, precisely, is desired from the provided system or service. The same can be said when an organizational leader presents a new initiative, or charters a project. The author, or presenter, of these desires are already intimately familiar with what they seek but those around them, whether vendor or peer, may not be visualizing the same solutions. How can they create a common vision?

I like to overcome this unnecessary problem of perception with a short narrative describing a successful utilization of the system. And, it can also be applied to expectations for security posts and proposed procedures. Writing an “Anecdote of Success” helps to solidify what you, the creator, customer, solution seeker, truly want and expect.