The Art and Science of Change explores change and transformation as complex, multifaceted phenomena that are constant and inevitable in both personal and organizational life. Change is defined as an alteration or transition, while transformation implies a more profound and fundamental shift in identity and self-worth. Effectively managing these processes requires a multidisciplinary approach, integrating insights from diverse fields such as systems theory, psychology, storytelling, cultural analysis, and management models. The workshop emphasizes that change is not merely a series of events, but an ongoing process influenced by forces that both stimulate and inhibit it, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of human behavior and organizational dynamics.
The science of change delves into structured frameworks and natural laws, such as systems theory, which views organizations as interconnected “holons” with permeable boundaries, constantly interacting with their environment. The Second Law of Thermodynamics serves as a metaphor, illustrating the irreversible flow of energy and the “arrow of time” in change processes, implying that “the omelette can no longer become the egg”. On the art side, storytelling is highlighted as a powerful tool for sense-making, knowledge sharing, and creating a shared reality and meaning.
Leaders use stories to craft visions and inspire action, recognizing that culture is “continually refreshed by story” and influenced by paradigms—self-consistent beliefs that filter our perception of the world. This blend of scientific models and artistic narrative makes managing change a holistic endeavor, recognizing that understanding the subjective experience and collective narratives is as crucial as analysing systemic structures.
Views: 50