- Investigations
- Inquiry and Assessments
Investigations
Reviews and Mediation
The Futures Group has extensive experience working at both an executive and operational level within the public and private sectors on a broad range of performance based consulting issues which has required us to address some incredibly difficult matters in the workplace, this includes fraud, whistleblowing, sexual harassment, bullying complaints, discrimination claims and dysfunctional team dynamics,
An employer is legally obligated to investigate a complaint, and, in many instances, an independent investigator is brought in to ensure a fair, professional, and unbiased process is undertaken. The employer may request a preliminary investigation to establish if there appears to be substantial evidence of wrong doing or ethical failures to decide whether to move to a full investigation which requires sound evidence and proof that the claims are factually true or on the balance of probabilities the evidence indicates that the event more likely occurred.
Often issues can arise in a team that impact team morale and performance with no formal complaint being lodged however the organisation has a duty of care to identify the issues and to take action to address the underlying causes. In these circumstances The Futures Group would conduct a team culture review where all stakeholders are confidentially interviewed by a consultant to establish key issues for resolution with recommendations for actions moving forward. A review may identify historical issues, its primary focus is on looking forward by giving a business the opportunity to address challenges that will shape its future. These could range from undesirable or unproductive behaviours to inadequate systems or processes that could indicate a poor workplace culture.
The Futures Group accredited mediators facilitate a mediation process between parties to assist the parties to identify and assess options and negotiate an agreement to address the issues depending on the circumstances. A short final agreement is then developed for each party to sign witnessed by their line manager or appropriate organisation sponsor.
Investigations
The Futures Group has a strong team of consultants with specialist investigation skills with tertiary qualifications and holding a Professional Investigator and inquiry Agents Licence All consultants have practical workplace experience and a demonstrated track record of success in delivering independent, unbiased and professional investigations to assist decision making. We adopt a rigorous investigation methodology focusing on best practice and ensure a project management approach is adopted to ensure all investigations are well planned, timely and clear outcomes are achieved. We keep clients informed at all steps of the process but still maintain the confidentiality of the process.
All consultants have extensive experience in tailoring approaches to workplace investigations to also consider the wider implications of the organisational culture, the Identification of Psychosocial Risks or other leadership or management issues that may need to be considered to avoid or minimise the occurrence of future situations in terms of recommendations that can be provided. We can also provide advice in relation to the IR/HR consequences that can flow from a workplace investigation.
We have performed multiple investigations for many government and private sector organisations, which highlights the quality of our services, our ability to get results and a consistently high level of customer satisfaction. All investigations are carried out by highly qualified investigators who provide independent, bias free and extremely thorough investigative work ensuring procedural fairness with a high degree of confidentiality and with findings made only on the evidence presented, in an objective manner.
Reviews
The Futures Group has undertaken a range of culture reviews to provide a variety of organisations in the public and private sectors with an independent lens to understand underlying issues that could be negatively impacting on team morale and overall performance. We have found that these factors can range from undesirable or unproductive behaviours to inadequate systems or processes that could indicate a poor workplace culture.
The confidential nature (in terms of what an individual answers) and the less structured approach of a review often means that staff and key stakeholders will open up about what is working well in the team and what needs to be improved. There issues can range from poor individual behaviours, noncompliance as well as infective leadership. Values, attitudes and management aptitude are all elements of culture that we have uncovered and weighed through our reviews.
We use a range of methodologies that we adapt to suit the specific organisations needs these can include McKenzie 7S methodology as it focuses on a number of key areas that need to be aligned to achieve high performance.
McKenzie 7S methodology
Our experienced consultants with work closely with management, key staff, and stakeholders to understand the business and the organisation’s needs. They use their strong interpersonal, organisation development and interviewing skills to build trust and identify key issues.
They then prepare a report that summarises themes and emerging issues from the evidence collated and provide key recommendations to move forward and proactively address the issues raised.
Mediation
Our independent, Accredited Mediators will assist you to manage disputes within the leadership or staffing groups in your organisation. Our mediators bring people together with the aim of establishing mutually agreed outcomes that can be implemented immediately following the process. The Futures Group has a tried and tested mediation model based on facilitative dispute mediation process.
our benefits
A Few Reasons Why You Should Choose Us
We seamlessly merge two key components – Our professional HR consulting skills and experience with our strong practical business acumen to partner organisations to achieve meaningful solutions.
High standards of professionalism and integrity. Establishment of close working relationships.
We focus on continuous improvement to always do our best.
A different way of thinking, both inside and outside the box.