Problem solving and agility are non-linear (join my session to find out why!)

Time is linear. Complex problem solving is not. Nor are Agile ways of working.

IBM Design Thinking reframed its linear design model into an infinite loop. The three phases of design are rendered as a wonderful rhythm and flow of observation on the left-hand side, making on the right-hand side, and reflection as the junction point between the observe and make phases. This rendering helps reframe how and (how often) designers check in with their stakeholders, customers, clients, and end users - whoever is the intended recipient of a redesigned delightful experience.

As a creativity practitioner, facilitator and strategist, I find this model to be brilliantly simple and visual. Compare the loop above with the screencap in the video below. Sure we can always go back and empathize, but how often do we think to do that when it's modeled in a linear fashion?

Even more profound is how the loop models the universal creative process. When I first read the design language representing observing and making, it sounded nearly identical to the language and process of creative problem-solving:

I have devoted several years of research into the loop and the rich layers of understanding it gives teams. So much so I designed a workshop called Mindful Agility - Finding Balance that I will be presenting as a featured Creative Education Foundation workshop on November 3, 2021.

In this workshop we will explore the rhythm and flow of applied imagination and discover every team's innate sense of agility, versatility, and creativity. The video trailer gives a taste of some of the focus. I'd love to see you there!