Given the solid scientific evidence and proven track record of applying the minimum factor principle, there can be no serious questioning of its importance. Because this principle is so clearly presented within NCD, there is a danger that NCD can be perceived as a more "negative" activity within church life. While we must continue to proclaim the importance of focusing on your minimum factor in church life, there is another side to the topic that should be emphasised much more strongly in order to provide a balanced understanding of NCD.

Exactly the same survey that provides you with a highly accurate diagnosis of your minimum factor, also reveals the greatest strength of a church with exactly the same accuracy. NCD enthusiasts can be in danger of too quickly encouraging a church to address its minimum factor without spending time celebrating the church's maximum factor and therefore building their confidence to face the challenges involved in improving their minimum factor.

Imagine the picture of a windmill that is often shown in NCD tools to illustrate energy transformation. When you look at one, your attention will usually go to the blades of the windmill. What we can forget is that it is only possible for the blades to spin around because the tower is strongly connected to the ground. When we take time (and as much time as is needed) to help a church acknowledge and celebrate their maximum factor, we are helping them to feel more securely connected to the ground... to their roots. When that has been done, it is much easier for them to consider putting fan blades in place to transform the various winds and challenges they will face in addressing their minimum factor.

When helping a church to celebrate their maximum factor, some of the following questions may be helpful:

• What activities or habits in the life of your church do you think have contributed to this maximum factor? Are there any stories you could share that show this strength in action?
• For how long do you think this may have been your greatest strength as a church?
• Who are some of the people in your church who have strongly contributed to establishing that strength? How could you celebrate and thank them for their contribution to church life?
• Since all of the eight NCD quality characteristics reflect needs in the lives of people, if a new person came to one of your activities, how would they benefit from this strength within your church?

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