The fourth and fifth COHU dialogue events focused on the particular problems of each company separately. We were happy to see how in just a few meetings the atmosphere had become warm and trusting. Both the researchers and the business people felt safe to express their opinions and critical thoughts, and the meetings were filled with a supportive “we” spirit.

Each company explained first their situation and problems in more detail and described their aims, business environment and work conditions. One researcher had been given the task to think about the company’s situation based on the previous discussions and their own expertise. He/she presented their thoughts after the company’s presentation. In the warm atmosphere, enthusiastic discussion burst forth immediately. The facilitator had his hands full trying to make sure everybody’s comments were heard.

After each event, the facilitator prepared a summary report for the company. He analysed in detail the problem and the ideas the researchers had presented and added the dimensions and conclusions of each small-group and general discussion. To top it all, he studied relevant literature and completed the report with supporting notions and research.

Our journey to the secrets of co-creation is now ending. We started off with a spirit of experimentation, realising the risks inherent in the process. We were lucky enough to get on board people with genuine curiosity and courage from both business and research. The dialogue and interaction in these five workshops have brought with them surprises and changed the way many of us think. Every participant has experienced the process in their own way. Even though we started from very different points of view, talking about our views and really listening to one another has created a trusting and supportive atmosphere. This, in turn, has made it possible to talk openly and in depth and to produce ideas and solutions that a different kind of setting would not have allowed.

The final workshop next week is devoted to the evaluation of the COHU process and of its results. We organisers are eager to hear what the participants feel they have learned, what they have liked and disliked, and how we can make the process of co-creation better next time!

Antti Hautamäki

Tanja Suni