In the #DESIGNtoCHANGE Podcast Season 5 episode "Year +2 with Tim Willard," hosted by Ruud Janssen, the speakers delved into the transformative intersections of event design, organizational development, and AI. Tim Willard, a certified director and organizational development practitioner, shared insights from his Navigate practice, emphasizing trust, collaboration, and the systemic approach of mess management in leadership teams. The Event Canvas methodology, developed by the Event Design Collective, was highlighted as a structured framework for designing events that align with stakeholder behaviors and expectations, fostering shared understanding and teamwork.
Find the Full AI recap by Snapsight including Key Takeaways, Idea Cloud and Summary here: https://www.snapsight.com/live-channel/88646944-36b5-4b59-8b5e-f47a4c91039a/e1be71ca-a1cb-4f34-8ecd-1d9e0efd487e/attendee?tab=takeaways
Tim introduced AI Praxis which is yet to be developed. Ruud introduced a concept integrating AI tools like Snapsight into strategic planning processes to enhance real-time data curation and synthesis. During the podcast, AI was employed to validate insights, track the use of the word "change," and gamify the conversation, showcasing its potential as a "third eye" that complements human creativity. The speakers explored AI’s role in navigating complex systems and its application in mess management, emphasizing adaptability and continuous improvement.
The session revisited Tim’s work on Western Cape business scenarios during the COVID-19 pandemic, where he developed four possible outcomes: bungee rope, slipknot, tangled, and unraveling fast. Tim noted that the current state aligns most closely with the bungee rope scenario, characterized by slow recovery and partial reforms. The speakers also discussed the global tariff impact on South Africa’s economy, particularly the challenges posed by the expiration of the AGOA trade agreement, and reflected on South Africa’s Rugby World Cup pride as a unifying event boosting national morale.
Futures literacy, a concept championed by UNESCO, was another focal point. This approach emphasizes exploring possibilities without being outcome-driven, aligning with Tim’s philosophy of designing for possibilities rather than solving isolated problems. The speakers referenced Benjamin Zander’s "Art of Possibility," highlighting the importance of focusing on potential rather than limitations.
Tim’s extensive experience as a partner, mentor, and non-executive director was also discussed, illustrating his multifaceted approach to organizational development. The conversation touched on the Design2Change book, which encourages readers to elevate their abilities to act beyond the now, and explored scenario planning as a tool for designing resilient futures.
This engaging episode provided valuable insights into the collaborative frameworks, scenario planning techniques, and AI applications shaping resilient organizations and events, underscoring the importance of trust, adaptability, and shared values in navigating complex challenges.
