During the Wisdom Lab on November 5, we demonstrated our method of “coming alongside” (to use a nautical term) in order to partner with individuals and organizations in the discovery and guidance of what is already in progress. First, we looked at “how” the individual or organization responded to questions and dilemmas that resist easy answers.
We looked closely at the varied responses which allowed us to see otherwise hidden possibilities. We introduced the term gesture as a way to identify underlying impulses. It was through gesture that we started to uncover what is happening now and then to work with adaptive responses.
A number of you asked for examples. Please download our paper and chart describing the characteristics of life-cycle stages of organizations showing gestures appropriate to each stage: Gestures, the key to emergence
The Action Learning Labs System
Our unique approach is based on a practical way to understand and influence leadership, complex organizations and change. Any organization or system undergoes a developmental process with discrete stages in its life cycle. Each stage has properties defining it with its own potential risks, dangers and opportunities. Yet each stage is in conflict with others. Experiencing and understanding this life-cycle model, with its stages and transitions between stages, is foundational to our approach.
Why we approach problems differently
While simplicity and the quick fix may seem appealing, complex systems resist simple solutions. A band-aid solution can hinder change by hiding the real way forward.
Instead of searching for problems to fix, our first objective is to identify the stage the person or system is in now. We need to understand what is happening, or “trying to happen.” From this vantage point we can see more clearly (often surprising) opportunities.
Sustainable responses
We explore impulses for change and growth appropriate for the system’s developmental stage. Then we facilitate change using action learning, experimentation, and practice to develop sustainable responses to tough questions and high stakes transitions.
Our pedigree
Action Learning Labs is based on over twenty years of inquiry into leadership, innovation, and change, including ground-breaking research at the Organizational Learning Center at MIT. Our newest offerings are the result of a three-year-long intensive action research project, funded by the John F. Fetzer Institute in collaboration with, Global Project on Negotiation at Harvard University, Internet Infrastructure Platform Group, Hewlett-Packard, Formative Assessments Division, CTB/McGraw-Hill, and the National League of Cities/William and Flora Hewlett Foundation.
Individuals and organizations facing critical crossroads can now benefit from the latest research into change, innovation, and leadership.
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