Linda Tuhiwai Smith and Fiona Cram provide guidance on research and evaluation in a kaupapa Māori context – involving eight principles.
We believe these principles are equally relevant to a business context, as adapted below.
We believe these principles are equally relevant to a business context, as adapted below.
Whanaungatanga ...
... refers to the building and maintenance of relationships. It’s the process of establishing meaningful, reciprocal and whānau or family-like relationships through cultural respect, connectedness and engagement
Manaakitanga ...
... describes sharing, hosting and being generous. It supports collaboration and helps knowledge flow both ways.
Aroha ...
... means love but it also means respect. Treating people with respect means allowing them control: where to meet and on their own terms, and when to meet.
Māhaki ...
... is about showing humility when sharing knowledge. Māhaki reminds us to share knowledge and experiences to understand each other better and to foster trust in the business relationship.
Mana ...
... relates to power, dignity and respect. “Kaua e takahia te mana o te tangata.” Do not trample on the mana or dignity of a person. People are the experts on their own lives, including their problems, needs and aspirations. Look for ways to work together.
Titiro, whakarongo, kōrero ...
... means to look, listen and then speak. It's important to look and listen to develop understanding and find a place to speak from. You need to take time to understand people’s day-to-day realities, priorities and aspirations. This will make your interactions relevant and clear to the other party.
Kia Tupato ...
... is being cautious. You need to be politically savvy, culturally safe, and reflective about your insider or outsider status. Staying safe might mean working with elders and others in the community who can guide your work.
He Kanohi kitea ...
... means being a familiar face. You should seek to be involved with communities and be familiar to them to build trust and communication.