Monthly Archives: September 2020

Virtual Keynotes and Virtual Workshops Now Available

Virtual Keynotes and Virtual Workshops Now Available

The coronavirus (COVID-19) has inflicted untold pain and disruption on individuals, families, businesses and economies all around the world.

But, now that we all are obtaining a clearer understanding of what it means to live and work amongst the reality of COVID-19, people are going back to work (even if still remotely) and companies are turning their attention increasingly back to the future.

Now is the time for event producers and innovation leaders to restart their content pipelines to inspire and empower audiences and employees to stoke their innovation bonfires, plan their transformation journeys, or chart their course for change.

People are more ready than ever to engage with virtual content, and you can save on travel expenses at the same time. Whether we’re speaking about inspirational keynotes or empowering workshops that create new capabilities in the audience or bring teams together to co-innovate using design thinking and other tools, frameworks, and methods.

I would be more than happy to create and deliver a customized keynote or workshop to any audience anywhere in the world, on any of these broad topics:

  • Change
  • Innovation
  • Design Thinking
  • Digital Transformation

Or if want to do your own workshops inside your organization but need a little help transitioning these to the virtual world, I would be happy to assist you with this as well.

For more information, please see my speaker page or contact me.

Keep innovating!


Accelerate your change and transformation success

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Design Thinking and Sustainability

Creating Environmentally-friendly Solutions

Design Thinking and Sustainability

GUEST POST from Art Inteligencia

As we face growing environmental challenges, businesses and individuals alike are increasingly recognizing the importance of incorporating sustainability into their practices. Design thinking, a creative problem-solving approach, can be a powerful tool in developing environmentally-friendly solutions. By prioritizing ecological needs from the very beginning, design thinking enables us to create innovative and sustainable products, services, and systems. In this article, we will explore the intersection of design thinking and sustainability, discussing its benefits and providing two compelling case studies that showcase its effectiveness.

Benefits of Design Thinking in Sustainability:

1. Holistic Problem-Solving: Design thinking encourages a human-centered approach, focusing on understanding user needs and the broader context of a problem. By considering ecological factors as part of this holistic approach, designers can identify creative ways to address sustainability challenges. This mindset enables the development of sustainable solutions that go beyond meeting short-term objectives, leading to more far-reaching environmental benefits.

2. Collaboration and Co-creation: Design thinking emphasizes collaboration and involving stakeholders from various disciplines during the problem-solving process. Incorporating sustainability considerations into this collaborative approach ensures a diversity of ideas and perspectives. By engaging experts from environmental sciences, engineering, or green innovation, designers can tap into a wealth of knowledge, effectively merging design and sustainability expertise to create impactful solutions.

Case Study 1: The Ocean Cleanup Project

The Ocean Cleanup project, initiated by the Dutch inventor Boyan Slat, is a remarkable example of design thinking applied to address environmental challenges. By leveraging a systematic design process, Slat and his team developed an innovative solution to remove plastic debris from our oceans. The project involved extensive research, prototypes, and testing, subsequently leading to the creation of a passive cleanup system that captures floating plastic waste using ocean currents. Through design thinking methodologies, the Ocean Cleanup project demonstrates the power of combining creative problem-solving with sustainability objectives to tackle one of the greatest threats to our oceans.

Case Study 2: IDEO’s Sustainable Packaging Solutions

IDEO, an internationally renowned design firm, has been employing design thinking principles to develop sustainable packaging solutions for various clients. In one particular case, IDEO partnered with a global food company to tackle the environmental impact of their product’s packaging. By engaging stakeholders from diverse fields and using design thinking tools such as empathy mapping and rapid prototyping, IDEO was able to propose creative packaging alternatives made from biodegradable materials and explore innovative ways to reduce waste in the supply chain. Through this approach, IDEO exemplifies how design thinking can be key in transforming traditional practices into sustainable and environmentally-friendly solutions.

Conclusion

Design thinking offers a compelling framework to address complex challenges by embedding sustainability at the core of the problem-solving process. By prioritizing the environment as a key stakeholder, design thinkers can create innovative, human-centered, and sustainable solutions. The case studies of the Ocean Cleanup project and IDEO’s packaging solutions highlight the tangible impact that design thinking can have on solving environmental problems. By continuing to integrate design thinking with sustainability principles, we can unlock endless possibilities for creating a more environmentally-friendly future.

SPECIAL BONUS: Braden Kelley’s Problem Finding Canvas can be a super useful starting point for doing design thinking or human-centered design.

“The Problem Finding Canvas should help you investigate a handful of areas to explore, choose the one most important to you, extract all of the potential challenges and opportunities and choose one to prioritize.”

Image credit: Misterinnovation.com

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The Role of Virtual Reality in Shaping Future Learning Environments

The Role of Virtual Reality in Shaping Future Learning Environments

GUEST POST from Chateau G Pato

With the rapid advancement of technology, it comes as no surprise that virtual reality (VR) has emerged as a transformative tool in various industries. One such area where VR is making significant strides is in the field of education. Virtual Reality has the potential to revolutionize traditional learning methods by creating immersive and interactive experiences that enhance student engagement and understanding. In this thought leadership article, we will explore the role of virtual reality in shaping future learning environments, highlighting two case studies that demonstrate its remarkable impact.

Case Study 1: Medical Education

One notable example of VR’s influence on the learning landscape is its application in medical education. Traditionally, medical students have relied on textbooks, lectures, and limited hands-on experiences to grasp complex medical concepts and procedures. However, VR has opened up a whole new realm of learning by providing students with interactive simulations and realistic scenarios.

Imagine a medical student aspiring to become a surgeon. In the past, they might have observed surgeries from a distance or practiced on models. But with VR, they can now step into a virtual operating room and experience a surgery in a much more hands-on way. Companies like Osso VR have developed VR training modules that guide students through realistic surgical procedures, allowing them to practice their skills in a safe and controlled environment. This immersive experience enhances their learning outcomes, confidence, and muscle memory, ultimately leading to more skilled and prepared medical professionals.

Case Study 2: Historical Education

VR is also transforming the way history is taught. History can often be perceived as a dull subject, filled with abstract dates and events. But with virtual reality, students can transport themselves to different historical eras, bringing the past to life in a tangible way.

Take, for example, the VR experience built by the British Museum in partnership with Samsung. Through their virtual reality tour, students can explore an ancient Greek city or walk through the rooms of the Egyptian Book of the Dead. This interactive experience immerses students in history, allowing them to see and touch artifacts that would otherwise be inaccessible. By engaging multiple senses, VR enhances learning retention and stimulates students’ curiosity, making history a captivating and memorable subject.

Looking Ahead

As VR continues to advance, its potential in shaping future learning environments is immense. From aiding simulations in scientific experiments to creating virtual laboratories for chemistry and biology, the possibilities are endless. VR opens doors to disciplines where physical constraints, safety concerns, or limited resources could hinder traditional learning methods.

However, implementing VR in education does come with challenges. Infrastructure requirements, availability of affordable devices, and content creation can be barriers that need to be addressed. Collaboration between academia, technology providers, and policymakers is crucial to ensure equitable access to VR tools and content.

Conclusion

In conclusion, virtual reality is revolutionizing education by creating immersive and interactive learning experiences. The case studies in medical education and historical education serve as powerful examples of VR’s potential to enhance learning outcomes. As we look towards the future, it is essential to embrace this technology, adapt curricula, and foster collaborations to unlock the full potential of VR in shaping future learning environments. By doing so, we will empower students with an innovative and engaging educational experience, preparing them to thrive in an ever-evolving world.

Bottom line: Futurology is not fortune telling. Futurists use a scientific approach to create their deliverables, but a methodology and tools like those in FutureHacking™ can empower anyone to engage in futurology themselves.

Image credit: Pixabay

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Companies Need to Double Down on Dual-Factor Authentication

Companies Need to Double Down on Dual-Factor Authentication

Unfortunately there will always be bad actors in this world, people who don’t restrain themselves from trying to steal from others or to harm them. Because of this we need to accept the fact that hacking is here to stay and enhanced security measures will be required to protect ourselves from theft in our digital lives that can impact our real lives.

Some of my recent research in the hospitality industry identified that fraud is a large and increasing problem for hotels, resulting in unfilled inventory, credit card chargebacks, and loyalty point thefts from customers.

Personally, my Starbucks card account has been hacked – twice.

According to Chargeback.com:

“The percentage of cyber attacks targeting loyalty and rewards accounts nearly tripled from 2016 to 2017, with 48% of businesses being hit by ATO (Account Takeover) attacks. This has cost companies more than $2.3 billion worldwide.”

The most recent hack was foiled by a 24 hour cooldown period, preventing (or discouraging) thieves from being able to move about $25.00 off my Starbucks card onto theirs. But as I was setting up dual-factor authentication on my account and changing my password to keep the thieves from getting back into my account I noticed that the system was not set up well for a simple nuclear family – let alone a complicated family. Users are only able to enter a single phone number for the dual-factor authentication code to be sent to. I assume this is to make the system simple but it then makes it so that my wife can’t access the account.

Dual-factor authentication is going to become a mandatory requirement for logins to financially-linked accounts (including any site where you store your credit card details) and companies need to design their systems to accommodate spouses and potentially even children.

Companies should consider incorporating biometric methods of identity verification as the primary or secondary method of authentication as well, not just for security reasons but for ease of use/customer experience reasons too.

So, protect your customers folks, but remember how people live their lives as you’re designing your systems to keep them (and their money) safe.

Keep innovating!


Accelerate your change and transformation success

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The Role of Prototyping in Human-Centered Design

Turning Ideas into Reality

The Role of Prototyping in Human-Centered Design

GUEST POST from Art Inteligencia

In the realm of design, prototyping plays a pivotal role in transforming abstract ideas into tangible reality. It acts as a catalyst, bridging the gap between concept and execution by providing a platform for innovation, experimentation, and refinement. However, when it comes to human-centered design, the process of prototyping takes on even greater significance. By involving end-users from the very beginning, prototyping helps designers empathize, understand, and cater to the needs of their target audience, resulting in products that truly resonate with users. In this thought leadership article, we will explore the paramount importance of prototyping in human-centered design, along with two illustrative case study examples.

Case Study #1: Airbnb’s Rapid Prototyping Revolution

Airbnb, the revolutionary accommodation marketplace, owes much of its success to its relentless focus on human-centered design. In order to gain a deep understanding of the key concerns and aspirations of their users, Airbnb designers embarked on a prototyping frenzy. By creating quick, low-fidelity prototypes, they were able to gather invaluable feedback and refine their platform continuously. In one instance, the team created a series of paper prototypes to test the booking flow of Airbnb’s mobile application. This exercise helped them identify pain points and provided insights that informed the development of a seamless and intuitive booking experience. Through prototyping, Airbnb revolutionized the way people find and book accommodations, offering a user-centric solution that disrupted the hospitality industry.

Case Study #2: The Humanitarian Design Project in Uganda

The Humanitarian Design Project (HDP), a non-profit organization specializing in developing innovative solutions for impoverished communities, exemplifies the power of prototyping in addressing complex social challenges. HDP initiated a project in Uganda to tackle the issue of water scarcity in rural areas. By involving local residents throughout the entire design process, from problem identification to prototype testing, HDP ensured that the final solution truly met the needs of the community. Initially, the HDP team created several low-cost prototypes using readily available materials. Through continuous feedback sessions, they learned which prototypes were most suitable for local conditions and the preferences of the users. Ultimately, an inexpensive rainwater harvesting system emerged, designed and implemented with community-driven insights, solving the water scarcity problem sustainably. This case study showcases how prototyping can enable human-centered design in even the most challenging contexts, empowering marginalized communities.

The value of prototyping in human-centered design is clear; it offers an avenue for direct user engagement, validation, and iteration. By prototyping early and often, designers can gain critical insights into user needs, pain points, and preferences, enhancing the product’s value proposition. Moreover, prototyping helps in identifying design flaws and unforeseen limitations before the product reaches the market, potentially saving significant amounts of time and resources.

Conclusion

Prototyping stands as a fundamental pillar in human-centered design, acting as a vital tool for turning ideas into reality. By involving end-users from the outset, designers can ensure that their solutions address real human needs and desires. The case studies of Airbnb and the Humanitarian Design Project exemplify how prototyping can enable transformative design outcomes, from disrupting industries to solving complex social challenges. As the world becomes increasingly focused on empathy-driven design, incorporating prototyping in the design process becomes the key to delivering meaningful and impactful products for the betterment of society.

SPECIAL BONUS: Braden Kelley’s Problem Finding Canvas can be a super useful starting point for doing design thinking or human-centered design.

“The Problem Finding Canvas should help you investigate a handful of areas to explore, choose the one most important to you, extract all of the potential challenges and opportunities and choose one to prioritize.”

Image credit: Unsplash

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Unraveling the Potential of Quantum Computing in Solving Complex Problems

Unraveling the Potential of Quantum Computing in Solving Complex Problems

GUEST POST from Chateau G Pato

In recent years, the field of quantum computing has captured the imagination of scientists, researchers, and technologists worldwide. Promising significant advancements over classical computers, quantum computing has the potential to revolutionize various industries by solving complex problems that were once considered insurmountable. With its ability to harness the principles of superposition and entanglement, quantum computing offers novel approaches to computation, unlocking new frontiers in fields such as cryptography, drug discovery, optimization, and modeling complex physical systems.

Case Study 1 – Cryptography

One of the most exciting prospects of quantum computing lies in its ability to break cryptographic codes that are currently deemed unbreakable by classical computers. Case in point, the advent of quantum algorithms such as Shor’s algorithm allows for the efficient factorization of large numbers, a crucial foundation of many encryption methods currently employed. To illustrate how this could impact various industries, let’s consider the financial sector. Banks and financial institutions rely on encryption to protect customers’ sensitive information and ensure secure online transactions. Should quantum computers become capable of breaking existing encryption algorithms, the financial industry would need to swiftly adapt by implementing quantum-resistant encryption methods. The ripple effect of quantum computing in cryptography extends beyond finance, affecting communication, military intelligence, and data security for various sectors worldwide.

Case Study 2 – Drug Discovery

Another compelling case study showcasing the potential of quantum computing can be found in the field of drug discovery. The process of discovering new drugs is an intricate and time-consuming task involving extensive computational analysis. Quantum computing has the potential to significantly accelerate this process by simulating the behavior of molecules with unparalleled precision. By leveraging quantum algorithms, researchers can more accurately predict how drugs will interact with target molecules, reducing the need for costly and time-consuming laboratory experiments. This computational power could pave the way for the discovery of new drugs and the ability to personalize treatments based on an individual’s unique molecular makeup, revolutionizing healthcare and ultimately saving lives.

Additionally, quantum computing holds great promise in optimizing complex systems, offering solutions to previously intractable problems. Consider the logistics industry, which heavily relies on optimization algorithms to optimize delivery routes, minimize costs, and decrease transportation time. Quantum computing could offer significant advancements in this field by exponentially improving the efficiency of optimization algorithms. By analyzing vast amounts of data and considering intricate variables, quantum computers could determine optimal routes, minimizing fuel consumption, and reducing carbon emissions. Such advancements benefit not only the logistics industry but also have implications for supply chain management, traffic control, and urban planning, ultimately leading to more sustainable and efficient infrastructures.

While these case studies provide a glimpse into the future capabilities of quantum computing, it is important to acknowledge that the field is still in its infancy. Overcoming the current challenges of maintaining qubits’ stability, error correction, and scaling remains critical for the practical implementation of quantum computers. However, tremendous strides have been made, and as technology continues to evolve, quantum computing holds the potential to unlock new frontiers and transform countless industries.

Conclusion

Unraveling the potential of quantum computing offers a new chapter in computational possibilities. The breakthroughs it can provide, from breaking encryption codes to accelerating drug discovery and optimizing complex systems, can transform industries and shape the world we live in. Embracing quantum computing’s potential opens up new avenues for innovation and brings us closer to solving complex problems that were once thought to be beyond the reach of classical computation. Let us embrace this frontier with curiosity, resilience, and collaboration, as we stand on the precipice of a quantum revolution.

SPECIAL BONUS: Braden Kelley’s Problem Finding Canvas can be a super useful starting point for doing design thinking or human-centered design.

“The Problem Finding Canvas should help you investigate a handful of areas to explore, choose the one most important to you, extract all of the potential challenges and opportunities and choose one to prioritize.”

Image credit: Pixabay

Subscribe to Human-Centered Change & Innovation WeeklySign up here to get Human-Centered Change & Innovation Weekly delivered to your inbox every week.

The Role of Leadership in Fostering a Culture of Innovation

The Role of Leadership in Fostering a Culture of Innovation

GUEST POST from Art Inteligencia

In today’s rapidly changing business landscape, it has become evident that innovation is the key to long-term success and sustainability. Organizations that foster a culture of innovation are more likely to stay ahead of the competition and meet the evolving needs of their customers. However, creating such a culture requires strong and visionary leadership. In this article, we will explore the critical role leaders play in fostering a culture of innovation, supported by two inspiring case study examples.

Case Study 1: Google

Google, a tech giant renowned for its innovation, owes much of its success to its leaders’ commitment to fostering a culture of creativity and innovation. One standout example is Google’s ‘20% time’ policy, introduced by former CEO Eric Schmidt. This policy allowed employees to spend 20% of their work time pursuing passion projects outside their core responsibilities. This meant that engineers and employees across the organization had the opportunity to explore their own ideas, which ultimately led to the creation of groundbreaking products such as Gmail and Google Maps.

Leaders at Google understood that innovation required an environment that encouraged risk-taking and supported employees’ intrapreneurial efforts. By empowering their workforce to think beyond their immediate tasks, leaders demonstrated trust and belief in the abilities of their employees. This approach not only resulted in game-changing innovations but also bolstered employee engagement and satisfaction.

Case Study 2: Salesforce

Salesforce, a global leader in customer relationship management software, is another company that exemplifies the power of leadership in fostering a culture of innovation. CEO Marc Benioff is known for his strong belief in the importance of innovation and incorporates this vision into the company’s core values. Salesforce’s dedicated program, called ‘Innovation Hour,’ allows employees to spend one hour each week working on innovative projects or learning new technologies.

This intentional allocation of time sends a clear message that innovation is a priority for leaders at Salesforce. By providing their workforce with protected time for creative pursuits, leaders encourage and nurture innovative thinking throughout the organization. This culture of innovation has propelled Salesforce to the forefront of its industry and helped the company continuously deliver new, value-added solutions to its customers.

The Role of Leadership

Leadership plays a vital role in shaping the culture of an organization. When leaders prioritize and actively foster a culture of innovation, it sets in motion a positive chain reaction. Here are some key ways leaders can foster such a culture:

1. Encouraging Risk-Taking: Leaders should create an environment where employees feel safe to take risks, experiment, and learn from both successes and failures. By celebrating efforts and providing constructive feedback, leaders can instill a growth mindset within the organization.

2. Empowering and Trusting Employees: Leaders must empower and trust employees to think creatively and make decisions. When employees feel valued and their ideas are heard, they are more likely to contribute meaningfully to the innovation process.

3. Modeling Innovation: Leaders have a responsibility to set the example by embracing innovation themselves. They should actively seek out new ideas, technologies, and approaches to problem-solving. By embodying innovation, leaders inspire others to do the same.

Conclusion

Fostering a culture of innovation is the responsibility of leaders at all levels of an organization. The case studies of Google and Salesforce demonstrate the immense impact leadership can have on cultivating a culture that nurtures innovation. By encouraging risk-taking, empowering employees, and modeling innovation, leaders can create an environment where creativity thrives, ideas flourish, and game-changing innovations emerge. In an era characterized by disruption, organizations that prioritize innovation will be better equipped to adapt, grow, and succeed in the long run.

Image credit: Pixabay

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The Power of Emotional Connections in Customer Experience

The Power of Emotional Connections in Customer Experience

GUEST POST from Chateau G Pato

In today’s competitive business landscape, organizations are constantly seeking ways to stand out and create memorable experiences for their customers. While product quality and efficient service are undoubtedly essential, there is another significant factor that can make a lasting impact on a customer’s journey – emotional connections.

Emotional connections in customer experience refer to the ability of a brand to tap into customers’ emotions, creating meaningful interactions that leave a lasting impression. When a customer feels a genuine connection with a brand, they are more likely to remain loyal, recommend it to others, and become advocates. Let’s explore two case studies that showcase the power of emotional connections in customer experience.

Case Study 1: Dove’s Real Beauty Campaign

Dove, a personal care brand, launched its “Real Beauty” campaign in 2004 with a mission to redefine beauty standards and promote self-acceptance. The campaign featured women of different ages, sizes, and ethnicities, focusing on real-life beauty rather than unrealistic beauty ideals portrayed in the media. By showcasing the diversity and authenticity of its customers, Dove successfully created an emotional connection with women worldwide.

This campaign resonated deeply with consumers who had long felt excluded or misrepresented in traditional beauty advertisements. People saw themselves, their mothers, sisters, and friends in Dove’s messaging, leading to a surge in positive sentiments towards the brand. The emotional connection established through the campaign resulted in increased brand loyalty and a significant boost in sales. Dove’s Real Beauty campaign demonstrated that by speaking to customers’ emotions and challenging societal norms, a brand can become a catalyst for positive change.

Case Study 2: Starbucks’ Personalized Customer Experience

Starbucks is renowned for the personalized customer experience it provides. Beyond serving a great cup of coffee, the company aims to create a comfortable atmosphere where customers can enjoy their drinks. One example of Starbucks’ commitment to emotional connections is the practice of writing customers’ names on cups. By personalizing each cup, Starbucks employees create a sense of recognition and importance for the customers.

In 2014, the company launched its “Meet Me at Starbucks” campaign, which featured short documentaries capturing genuine moments of human connection in their stores across the world. The emotionally-driven campaign highlighted Starbucks as a place where people can find common ground and connect with others. By showcasing the emotional value that Starbucks brings to people’s lives, the campaign reinforced the brand’s commitment to creating meaningful experiences for their customers.

Starbucks’ personalized approach and focus on emotional connections helped differentiate the company from its competitors. Customers often feel a sense of belonging and familiarity with Starbucks, making it their preferred choice even when competing options exist.

Conclusion

The examples of Dove and Starbucks showcase the impact emotional connections can have on customer experience. By understanding and addressing customers’ emotions, brands can become more than just a product or service provider. Companies that successfully build emotional connections foster loyalty, advocacy, and long-term customer relationships.

Creating emotional connections requires understanding customers’ values, aspirations, and pain points. Listening to their feedback and incorporating it into brand messaging and experiences allows companies to connect with customers at a deeper level. By emphasizing authenticity, inclusivity, and personalized experiences, brands can build emotional connections that transcend transactional relationships, leading to meaningful and enduring customer loyalty.

SPECIAL BONUS: Braden Kelley’s Problem Finding Canvas can be a super useful starting point for doing design thinking or human-centered design.

“The Problem Finding Canvas should help you investigate a handful of areas to explore, choose the one most important to you, extract all of the potential challenges and opportunities and choose one to prioritize.”

Image credit: Pixabay

Subscribe to Human-Centered Change & Innovation WeeklySign up here to get Human-Centered Change & Innovation Weekly delivered to your inbox every week.

Effective Communication: Unlocking Collaborative Innovation

Effective Communication: Unlocking Collaborative Innovation

GUEST POST from Art Inteligencia

In today’s fast-paced and interconnected world, effective communication plays a vital role in driving collaborative innovation. Whether it is within organizations or across industries, effective communication allows teams to share ideas, exchange knowledge, and work together towards achieving common goals. This article explores the significance of effective communication and presents two compelling case studies that demonstrate how it can unlock collaborative innovation.

Case Study 1: Pixar Animation Studios

Pixar Animation Studios has revolutionized the animation industry with its groundbreaking films and innovative storytelling techniques. To maintain their competitive edge, Pixar understands the importance of effective communication in driving collaborative innovation among their teams.

One example of effective communication at Pixar comes from the production of their hit film, “Toy Story.” The movie was a result of a collaborative effort between animators, storytellers, and technical experts. Regular meetings and brainstorming sessions were held, allowing team members to contribute their ideas and perspectives. Open lines of communication fostered a creative environment, where everyone felt comfortable sharing their thoughts and challenging existing ideas. This collaborative approach led to the development of fresh concepts and innovative animation techniques, ultimately making “Toy Story” a groundbreaking success.

Case Study 2: Google’s Project Aristotle

Google’s Project Aristotle is an extensive study conducted to understand the factors that contribute to effective team performance within the company. One of the key findings of this study was the significance of effective communication and psychological safety in fostering collaborative innovation.

The research showed that the most successful teams at Google were characterized by open and transparent communication. Team members felt comfortable expressing their ideas, even if they differed from others. This environment of psychological safety allowed for constructive debates and diverse perspectives, ultimately leading to more innovative solutions. Teams that cultivated effective communication practices were more likely to experiment, take risks, and explore new ideas together, driving collaborative innovation across the organization.

Key Takeaways:

1. Active Listening: Effective communication requires active listening, allowing team members to understand each other’s perspectives and build upon their ideas collaboratively. Actively listening to team members fosters an environment of trust and respect, encouraging the generation of innovative solutions.

2. Clear Communication Channels: Establishing clear communication channels ensures that information flows smoothly among team members. Whether it is through regular meetings, online platforms, or project management tools, accessible communication channels facilitate the exchange of ideas, knowledge, and feedback, enhancing collaborative innovation.

Conclusion

Effective communication is the key that unlocks collaborative innovation. The case studies of Pixar Animation Studios and Google’s Project Aristotle demonstrate how organizations can unleash their creative potential by fostering open communication, encouraging active listening, and creating an environment of psychological safety. Embracing effective communication practices allows teams to break down barriers, share ideas, and collaborate more effectively, paving the way for groundbreaking innovation and success.

Image credit: Unsplash

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Creating a Strong Change Coalition

Discussing the Importance of Assembling a Diverse and Influential Group of Change Agents to Drive Successful Transformation Efforts

Creating a Strong Change Coalition

GUEST POST from Chateau G Pato

Change is an inevitable part of any organization’s growth and evolution. However, ensuring the success of transformation efforts requires more than just a well-crafted strategy. It demands the creation of a strong change coalition – a diverse and influential group of change agents who can effectively champion and drive the change process. In this article, we will explore the significance of assembling such a coalition by reviewing two compelling case studies.

Case Study 1: IBM’s Transformation

IBM, a technology giant, faced a critical need to transform its business model to adapt to the rapidly changing technology landscape. To accomplish this, IBM embarked on a strategic transformation effort in 2012, which involved a significant shift towards cloud computing and cognitive computing solutions, such as their AI platform Watson.

One crucial aspect of IBM’s successful transformation was their ability to assemble a strong change coalition. The coalition consisted of top executives, mid-level managers, and frontline employees who possessed deep domain expertise, diverse perspectives, and influential positions within the organization. This diverse group of change agents worked collectively to overcome resistance, align stakeholders, and drive the necessary changes across the organization.

By assembling a strong coalition, IBM harnessed the power of its employees’ collective intelligence and created buy-in at every level. The influential members of the coalition facilitated communication, generated enthusiasm, and ensured the implementation of the transformation efforts. They also provided feedback and ensured that the change journey remained aligned with the company’s overarching vision. As a result, IBM successfully achieved its transformation goals, solidifying its position as a leading player in the technology industry.

Case Study 2: The British Airways Turnaround

In the late 1980s, British Airways (BA) faced serious challenges, including high operating costs, a demoralized workforce, and intense competition. To address these issues, BA relied on a strong change coalition to drive a successful turnaround. Led by CEO Colin Marshall, the change coalition included senior management, union leaders, and key stakeholders from various departments within the organization.

The diversity and influence of the coalition members played a crucial role in the transformation’s success. Marshall understood the importance of gaining commitment from unions, which historically opposed major changes. By actively involving union leaders in the change process, Marshall built trust, fostered collaboration, and ensured employee support for the necessary cost-cutting measures and improvements in customer service.

The change coalition at BA also focused on communication and transparency, ensuring that all employees were informed and engaged in the transformation efforts. Marshall, along with other influential members, actively listened to employees’ concerns, addressed them promptly, and recognized their contributions to the turnaround. This created a sense of ownership and commitment among the workforce, leading to significant improvements in both financial performance and customer satisfaction.

Conclusion

These case studies demonstrate that assembling a diverse and influential change coalition significantly contributes to the success of transformation efforts. Such coalitions not only provide the necessary expertise and perspectives to navigate through complex changes but also foster buy-in, build trust, and ensure continuous alignment with the organization’s vision.

When implementing your next strategic transformation endeavor, remember the importance of creating a strong change coalition. Identify influential individuals from various levels and functional areas within your organization, and empower them to champion the change process. By investing in a diverse and influential coalition, you lay the foundation for a successful transformation that can propel your organization towards greater success and sustainability.

SPECIAL BONUS: Braden Kelley’s Problem Finding Canvas can be a super useful starting point for doing design thinking or human-centered design.

“The Problem Finding Canvas should help you investigate a handful of areas to explore, choose the one most important to you, extract all of the potential challenges and opportunities and choose one to prioritize.”

Image credit: Pexels

Subscribe to Human-Centered Change & Innovation WeeklySign up here to get Human-Centered Change & Innovation Weekly delivered to your inbox every week.