To bridge the communication gap • Create a Cross-Functional Task Force: Form a team with representatives from both marketing and engineering to foster collaboration. • Hold Regular Alignment Sessions: Schedule frequent meetings where marketing shares customer insights and goals, while engineering explains technical constraints. • Use Visual Tools: Implement journey maps and flowcharts to simplify complex ideas. • Track Progress Transparently: Use project management tools for clear tracking. • Appoint a Neutral Facilitator: Designate someone to mediate conflicts and focus discussions on finding solutions. • Celebrate Quick Wins: Recognize and celebrate small successes to build trust and reinforce a spirit of collaboration.

I would bridge this gap like I was fixing a leaky pipe—messy at first, but oh-so-satisfying when done! Start with a “What’s the leak?” session. Get both teams in the same room and let marketing explain why their ideas are vital for customers, while engineering shares why some ideas might cause the system to burst. Remind them it’s not “us vs. them”; it’s about building a pipe (project) that flows smoothly without wasting resources. I would also use my ‘What, So What, What Next’ strategy: What’s the goal? So what’s stopping us? What next can we do together? This strategy is discussed in detail on the podcast- Communicate101: Speaking Writing Tips! Communication plumbing in action!