Refine

The purpose of this phase is for the city to consider the feedback and recommendations received from the International Secretariat and to refine the project focus and confirm key project stakeholders. A Strategic Workshop provides the forum for the relevant decision-makers to meet and undertake the project refinement exercise. It is opportunity for the In-Country Convenor to facilitate inter-sectoral dialogue between people from business, government and civil sectors, who are considered key in being able to develop bring unique knowledge and skills sets to the discussion in order to develop a holistic project design. Following the Strategic Workshop, it becomes apparent which individuals and organizations would be suitable for the Critical Reference Group, who are responsible for advising the Local Secretariat during the life of the city's engagement. Details of the Critical Reference Group are also submitted to the International Secretariat. Level One of the Circles of Sustainability tool is used to frame discussion with a series of questions that challenge stakeholders to question the relationship between the issue and the four social domains including economy, ecology, culture and politics. During this project refinement exercise, the city produces an illustrative diagram which is representative of the city's awareness of these inherent relationships. It provides a graphic representation of the city's understanding of the resources and practical responses that have been or are being brought to bear on this issue at a city level. This exercise helps to shape and inform the Design phase and assists in confirming individuals and organizations who may not be the usual people involved, yet whose skills and experience are considered well placed to be part of the Local Secretariat. The city also has opportunity to undertake a Scenarios Planning Workshop, which would be facilitated by the International Secretariat.