The findings and experiences of previous MLE developments highlight the importance of taking into account the context within which your MLE developments take place. Clarify in your own mind why organisational issues are important to identify. The following issues and questions might be helpful.

• Consider other institutional initiatives which have occurred in the past – what contributed to their success or what factors acted as barriers?
• How much does your organisational culture influence current practice within the institution?
• What impact do external drivers and funding initiatives have on current practice?
• What is the current political climate within your institution?
• Who are the people within your institution who have power and influence, to what extent and what does this effect?
• What are the different cultures across your institution and how do they impact on decision making and practice?
• What impact are your MLE developments likely to have across the institution? Where and in what ways?
• What existing factors or initiatives might be beneficial?
• Who is likely to be supportive of the initiative and why?
• Where are you likely to encounter resistance to the proposed plans and why?
• What other barriers do you envisage?