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A Problem-Solver's Guide to Copycatting

As most of my readers know, I'm a biologist by training. The main strength that I derive from that in my work is a lot of practice thinking in patterns, systems, and aesthetics as applied to projects and organizations. A short article in Fast Company entitled A Problem-Solver's Guide to Copycatting makes a case that we could all learn to copy patterns from the natural world, as we approach human and social challenges. Posted: 10/27/09; 5:26:00 PM #

2009 Tribalization of Business Study

The phrase being used in business communities to describe the rising importance of communities and networks is "tribalization". The highlights, flipbook, and related links from the 2009 Tribalization of Business Study, by Ed Moran at Deloitte is worth a look despite its hard core for-profit language and focus. It's a survey based report and they overreach their conclusions a bit as a result, but I can't argue with the key insights. For example, they suggest three next steps: (1) Think tribe - not market segment. (2) Think network - not channel. (3) Think customer-centricity - not company-centricity. Are you doing these things? I'll bet you they are all pretty hard for you, especially the third one. Posted: 10/27/09; 5:23:19 PM #

Real-Time Evaluations of Humanitarian Action

In an effort to counteract the popularity of bolted-on evaluations, I taught a seminar recently on what I call Integrated Evaluation. A complementary approach to this topic is addressed in the Real-Time Evaluations of Humanitarian Action (97 page PDF), by ALNAP, the Active Learning Network for Accountability and Performance in Humanitarian Action. This guide covers key steps for both managers and teams, and includes instructions for 25 different tools and checklists. Posted: 10/27/09; 5:10:11 PM #

Good Practices in Participatory Mapping

Maps are not neutral tools. Whether they depict geographies, concepts, social capital, or something else entirely, they are inherently value-driven and social. In Good Practices in Participatory Mapping (59 page PDF), a review put together by the International Fund for Agricultural Development, the authors tackle this issue head on. Their focus is on geographical maps (which befit an agricultural context), but they cover an excellent range of participatory techniques that reflect democratic values. They cover intermediaries, tools, impacts, enabling environments, and processes. If you're interested in the power of maps, this is a great document. Posted: 10/27/09; 4:59:26 PM #