Denis Jenkins’ Post

I have spent my career creating these kinds of visuals to facilitate conversations about wicked problems. Finally there is research showing why this enhances not only communication, but also cognitive processing, making it an essential tool for strategic decision making. Yes, it should be taught in business schools - its not something that should be relegated to visual design. This is not about aesthetics, it is about improving cognitive search, exploration and decision making. Well done @Felipe A. Csaszar, @Nicole Hinrichs, @Mana Heshmati. #design #informationdesign #strategicthinking #strategicdoing #strategicdecisionmaking Ed Morrison Mani Vannan Doug Smith Jane Rogan Beatrice McAlister Stuart Middleton Tyler Okimoto Neil Paulsen Charmine Hartel (FASSA, FCAHR, FAHRI, FANZAM, FAIM) Brad Beach Dr. Stuart Hamilton Nina Terrey John Body Holly N. O'Driscoll Christi Zuber Virginia Hamilton Chrystia Chudczak Margy Vilé Mary E. Moreland

Probably not a shock, or even news, to most in my network, but research shows that "external representations", or some sort of visualisation of a problem, "are powerful thinking tools that can enhance managers' cognitive capabilities and aid in developing high-quality strategies." While there are multiple types existing, and being taught for this purpose, they all have several limitations, primarily in the form that they are rather limiting, excluding critical aspects of the problem space, or they don't transfer information easily between them, making the information they contain difficult to transfer between the different people and disciplines involved in forming, and executing the strategy. #EDGY addresses both of these problems, without requiring you to change the tools. EDGY complements the tools with a language that can be implemented into these models, making it more easily transferable. EDGY also gives a more holistic perspective, making it more actionable for all, and providing a greater understanding of how what is being delivered, why, and how hangs together. You find more information about #EDGY at www.enterprise.design. You are also welcome to reach out to me if you are interested to learn more and get assistance.

Conceptual frameworks are crucial for focusing our work and fostering diverse thinking. Mutuality is key to unlocking the full potential of diversity, as visualisation guides conversations and builds relational trust. As leaders, our role is to mobilise others towards a shared goal, and these frameworks serve as powerful tools to mobilise our teams into action. #Leadership #Diversity #Framework #Mutuality

When you think of creative skills, what comes to mind? 🤔 Maybe your creative or marketing team or the ever-evolving world of AI? While these are undoubtedly creative fields, we often get bogged down with tasks and deadlines, leaving little room for actual creative thinking. With creative skills being the most in-demand in the global workforce, and over 70% of companies emphasising their importance, developing these abilities is crucial. Here are 5 easy ways to boost your creative thinking: 1️⃣ Embrace Diversity Diverse teams lead to dynamic solutions. Ensure everyone feels heard and watch creativity soar. 2️⃣ Stay Curious Curiosity drives performance. Ask questions, explore new ideas, and challenge assumptions. 3️⃣ Take Time to Reflect Schedule self-reflection and brainstorming sessions. Regularly assess lessons learned for fresh ideas. 4️⃣ Try Mind-Mapping Visualize thoughts and solutions with mind-mapping. It's great for brainstorming and persistent questioning. Learn from Others Expand your network. Learning from peers provides fresh insights and market information. Ready to elevate your creativity? 🚀 Book a COMPLIMENTARY brainstorming session with us and transform your ideas into game-changing solutions! #creativity #problem-solving #brainstorming #tpcreative

How to make people accept Creativity? Now we know for sure from data that people tend not to accept creative ideas. We, as planners, should concentrate on finding ways to make creativity more digestible because otherwise, it's clear that we'll always complain that research/testing kills creative ideas. https://lnkd.in/dbXx7Rp2 First of all, as the first study shows, a creative act should include a degree of utility (not just original, but also useful). https://lnkd.in/dzRxCAXM Secondly, it shouldn't be too far removed from a reference point and should contain a progressive innovation, says another research. https://lnkd.in/d6SYT9ZE What methods like these do you know/apply?

Researchers have come up with a simple test to measure a part of creativity called divergent thinking. In this test, you just have to think of 10 unrelated words. Your score on this test shows how creative you are, and it doesn't require someone else to judge your answers. This study found that the test results matched with other creativity tests. It means that almost anyone can be creative, and creativity isn't just for a few special people. Find the test here: https://lnkd.in/g7KF_HY9 #creativitytest #divergentthinking #creativity

I almost didn’t read this article. First, the sub-head states the obvious: “Science suggests that while skimming is faster than reading, it also leaves us susceptible to missing information.” Who knew? Second, Fast Company labels it a LONG READ. But it’s actually a great read. And one with implications for written advertising communications. Todd Rogers, a Professor of Public Policy at Harvard University, and Jessica Lasky-Fink, the Research Director at The People Lab, offer a masterclass in understanding the cognitive journey of readers. The excerpt of their book published in Fast Co. is not just academic fare; it’s a playbook for anyone grappling with the modern complexities of written advertising. They dissect the four-stage mental labyrinth that readers—whether of emails, social posts, or indeed advertisements—navigate almost subconsciously. Their findings? The cues that prompt engagement are shockingly uniform across mediums, making their insights invaluable for advertisers. The article begins by exploring the concept of the 'envelope,' or the first-impression metrics that determine whether a message is even deemed worth opening. Rogers and Lasky-Fink coin this rapid-fire assessment as "expected utility maximization," supported by survey data of 1,800 professionals who admitted to axing about half of their unread emails. The implications for ad copy, where first impressions are often the only impressions, are monumental. The second part digs into the complex calculus of time allocation. Here, the authors demystify our proclivity to favour immediate tasks over future dividends, a cognitive bias backed by MRI scans and cross-cultural studies. The takeaway for advertisers is obvious: If your message isn't resonating now, it’s unlikely to resonate later. But it's the final section on engagement that’s most challenging. Rogers and Lasky-Fink reveal the universal truth that we've all known but never articulated: everyone skims. The linearity of reading is a myth; we skim to maximize utility and minimize effort. This skimming culture poses a unique challenge to advertisers who must craft messages that not only capture attention but also withstand the skim test. The insights are less about how to write and more about how to be read. I hope you read this far. https://lnkd.in/gk_iaJBY

Strategic research diverges from traditional product-centric approaches by focusing squarely on people's experiences. Rather than fixating on the question, "Are we building the product right for customers?" it pivots towards the more profound inquiry of, "Do we truly comprehend the intricacies of our users' needs and challenges?" This approach goes beyond surface-level insights. Strategic research transcends the limitations of product-centric thinking. It is a method that nurtures empathy, fosters innovation, and ultimately empowers us to create digital solutions that enhance the lives of those we serve. It's not just about building products; it's about crafting experiences that leave a lasting impact. Strategic research offers a comprehensive view of individuals' digital interactions. In stark contrast, Tactical Product Research provides a limited glimpse into only a fraction of the overall user experience. Make sure you are prioritizing strategic research.

The creative industry moves at the speed of shoppers. For you, the Creative, it’s a high-pressure environment that’s highly competitive. To top it all off, there are new innovations everyday like AI that are changing the way you work. - You might be struggling getting creative directors or CCOs to buy into your ideas, saying their "off brief" or "too crazy ... - You might feel your portfolio doesn't stand out enough, needing more craft and deeper human insights driving your work ... - Or, you might just want to get to the next level by getting a promotion or winning more awards ... STRATEGIC CREATIVITY The best way to future proof yourself is to understand why creativity works using the fundamentals of strategy. #creative #strategy #creativestrategy #creativity #adcreative #design #education #training