How can you ensure your transportation planning team is aligned with your organization's values?

1 Define your values

The first step to align your team with your organization's values is to clearly define what those values are and why they matter. You can use your organization's mission statement, vision, or core values as a starting point, but you also need to translate them into specific and measurable behaviors and outcomes for your team. For example, if your organization values sustainability, you can set goals and indicators for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing multimodal options, or promoting green infrastructure in your projects. You can also create a value statement for your team that summarizes your shared purpose, principles, and expectations.

2 Communicate your values

Once you have defined your values, you need to communicate them effectively and consistently to your team. You can use various channels and methods to convey your values, such as newsletters, meetings, workshops, training sessions, or feedback mechanisms. You can also use stories, examples, or case studies to illustrate how your values are applied in practice and how they benefit your clients, communities, and the environment. The key is to make your values visible, relevant, and engaging for your team members.

3 Align your actions with your values

Defining and communicating your values are not enough if you do not act on them. You need to align your actions with your values and demonstrate them through your decisions, behaviors, and interactions. You also need to hold yourself and your team accountable for upholding your values and achieving your goals. You can use various tools and strategies to monitor and evaluate your performance, such as surveys, audits, reports, or dashboards. You can also reward and recognize your team members who exemplify your values and contribute to your success.

4 Involve your team in your values

Another way to align your team with your organization's values is to involve them in the process of defining, communicating, and implementing them. You can solicit their input, feedback, and suggestions on how to improve your value alignment and engagement. You can also empower them to take ownership and initiative in pursuing your values and goals. You can create opportunities for them to learn, grow, and innovate within your value framework. You can also foster a culture of collaboration, trust, and respect among your team members.

5 Adapt your values to changing contexts

Finally, you need to recognize that your values are not static or fixed, but dynamic and evolving. You need to adapt your values to changing contexts, such as new technologies, regulations, trends, or challenges. You need to review and update your values periodically and ensure that they reflect your current and future needs and aspirations. You also need to communicate and explain any changes or adjustments to your team and help them understand and embrace them.