Case Study: EarthScope Consortium
The result of a recent merger between Unavco and Iris, Earthscope is the world’s premier organization dedicated to transforming global geophysics research and education. When we began working with them, Earthscope faced three simultaneous challenges.
They were shifting to an all remote workforce.
They were moving data and delivery to the cloud.
They needed to build a new and effective culture from the two organizations that merged.
Leaders believed creating a safe, innovative, and inclusive culture would be the hardest and most critical part of the merger. Though they’d engaged in careful planing, communication, and collaboration, it was hard to overcome the differences in the cultures of the two organizations.
The Way We Can conducted a series of quarterly retreats with the Data Services team building a trusting and supportive environment where everyone was able to express their ideas, opinions, and concerns without fear of judgement or retaliation.
As word of the Data Services success creating an inclusive innovative culture spread, The Way We Can began working with other Earthscope teams as well, supporting the enterprise to develop a shared language and set of practices. Whether they are together or working remotely, the Way We Can is helping Earthscope build a high-engagement culture where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued, and where more and more people are able to contribute their best work and ideas.
