VIPP_Unicef

Group
events
and
VIPP
30
The main constraints in using VIPP at the grassroots level is the lack of
literacy and ability of the technicians and promoters to dialogue with
the poor. The first problem may be addressed by producing meaningful
symbols or pictures to express ideas. In fact, in Latin America, this
method has been used as a stepping stone to literacy. However, the
second problem is more pervasive. Extension workers are usually
educated to be superior to village people and it is difficult to admit
that local people possess valid knowledge, as well as forms to
communicate it. This is seldom learned at universities or colleges.
Trained to give orders and instructions, promoters may find it very
difficult to switch from the comfort of giving directives to more
participatory processes. The use of VIPP at this level requires an
excellent learning process to train able facilitators.
In the appendices there are a number of manuals listed for those who
wish to use visualization techniques in depth at the community level.
Conflict management and resolution
A growing area of need is conflict resolution. Conflict may manifest
itself in an organization, an association, a neighbourhood, a
community, between ethnic groups or between countries. The break
up of the Soviet Union and the end of the Cold War has unleashed
fires that were smoldering between ethnic and linguistic groups. People
are looking for fresh starts and new direction with their responsibilities
and rights clearly spelled out. Just as in organizations where there is a
perceived need for change, change is often threatening and leads to
conflict and sometimes to violence.
VIPP has a creative potential in the resolution of conflicts. There are a
number of professional groups involved in such processes but they
employ more traditional meeting formats and sometimes visualize
proceedings in long lists on flip charts which leads to difficulty in
moving, clustering and reformulating the issues being negotiated. When
possibilities are broken down to one idea per card, prioritizing and
resolving conflict is made easier. The job does not seem so formidable.
The use of VIPP boards for visualization, instead of the usual "face-off
over the table" formation, involves a third dimension of reflection and
reduces friction between people in discussion sessions. The parties in
conflict attempt to create a solution together, even if the writing and
handling of cards has to be done by facilitators in the first instance.
Of course, a will to resolve differences is necessary, even if the people
in conflict want to lead separate lives in peace. It is unlikely that any
conflict resolution process will be successful for any length of time if
the competitors do not recognize each other's right to life and selfdetermination.
If the objective is solely to gain ground, "playing all
cards close to the chest", a participatory process will not succeed and
should not be attempted.
THE USES OF VIPP