Last week I had the pleasure of supporting the CANDO (pronounced “can due”) during their inaugural meeting. This group of veterinarians and researchers are creating a network of researchers and practitioners a cross the US to address canine osteoarthritis with the goal of eventually applied what’s learned to help people with arthritis as well.
During an initial scoping call, the client wasn’t sure if graphic recording was a good fit for a dry meeting focused on organizational purpose, governance, and operating procedures. How could fun drawings come from that kind of content?
During an initial scoping call, the client and I had an exchange that went a little like this:
Client: This is going to be a pretty boring meeting. I’m not sure we need graphic recording.
Me: You may not. I’ve found that even when you’re working through the dry stuff, a visual map for everyone to follow along keeps the group focused, they see where there’s cohesion or disagreement. For new groups, it’s really helpful to create a clear shared understanding of purpose and goals. That way, as you grow, you’ll be able to get everyone on the same page quickly and easily.
Client: Okay, let’s give it a try!
We did, and it was a blast. Instead of drawing speakers, I got to draw their pets! I can’t wait to see the positive impact CANDO has for dogs and people.
Once again, thank you from my heart and soul for your support, great senses of humor, brilliant minds, collaboration and what you're each doing to make the world a better place.
Cheers,
Where in the World is ConverSketch?
Fort Collins, CO: Here are a couple more close-ups from CANDO. To learn more or support their work, please contact Felix Duerr.
In the Studio: Food Policy Wins. This project with the Colorado Health Foundation was a challenge! We started off with a list of chronological policy wins between 2019 and 2024, and together we refined it to get this map of the food policy ecosystem in Colorado. Well done Provecho Collective!
In the Studio: Great Expectations. In the Roaring Fork Valley of Colorado, accessing services when you’re expecting a baby or have a newborn isn’t always easy. Geographically disparate, lots of mountains, and seasonal weather can all make an already difficult time for a family even more challenging. Great Expectations provides home visits and supports for ALL families in the Valley, supporting new parents and their children.