Think Tanks

Think Tanks

The definition, composition, focus, and methodology for think tanks can differ from one region to another and across the world (Pop, 2012).  Often considered idea factories, think tanks typically comprise of subject matter experts assembled to produce solutions to a specific problem set (Whittenhauer, n.d.).  Pop (2012) argued think tanks fall into either academic, research institute, advocacy, or political classifications based on the nature and scope of the defined problem.  Development of think tank behavior, techniques, and methods depends on the category of the think tank and the institutional environment (Ruser, 2018)


Think Tank Construct

Whittenhauer (n.d.) identified two distinct think tank models that define the physical construct or aggregation of participants.  The one roof model provides a practical approach by gathering all participants into one physical environment to facilitate synchronous interaction.  Conversely, the “without walls” model offers a more conducive, asynchronous environment to geographically sparse participants and capitalize on current communication technologies for collaboration.  While think tank funding levels vary, the cost-prohibitive nature of travel and other related expenses makes the without walls model attractive for think tanks with budgetary constraints (Whittenhauer, n.d.).


Think Tank Techniques

Regardless of the think tank construct, one of the main strategies of think tank groups centers on developing a collaborative environment built upon cooperation and respect (Whittenhauer, n.d.).  Co-located groups tend to organize themselves into a circular formation to foster participation, improve morale, and increase productivity among think tank members and discourage negative comments and personal attacks.  An open environment built on mutual respect and acceptance promotes casual conversation and the sharing of ideas.  Defining the topology of ideas, goals, and targets generated by the think tank is essential to the employment of the strategy employed by the panel of experts (Ruser, 2018).  In addition to the construct of the think tank, exceptional leadership serves as a critical component to think tank effectiveness.  Improper communication, financial management, and supervision of the think tank can impact the quality of output from the assembled group (Whittenhauer, n.d.). Lastly, the accuracy in communication and dissemination of information and conclusions of the think tank is essential to assessing the think tank’s performance in the defined target or goal in addressing the proposed problem.  


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References


Pop, I. (2012). Developing suitable methods in think tank and NGO training. Procedia-Social and Behavioral Sciences, 46, 4061-4064.


Ruser, A. (2018). What to think about think tanks: Towards a conceptual framework of strategic think tank behaviour. International Journal of Politics, Culture, and Society, 31(2), 179-192. doi:http://dx.doi.org.proxy.cecybrary.com/10.1007/s10767-018-9278-x


Whittenhauer, K. (n.d.). Effective think tank methods. eHow. Retrieved from http://www.ehow.com/way_5728092_effective-think-tank-methods.html


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