Transduction?-?leading transformation?-?Issue?#156
Benjamin P. Taylor
![Benjamin P. Taylor]()
Benjamin P. Taylor
RedQuadrant | the Public Service Transformation Academy | systems | cybernetics | complexity / public | service | transformation business evolutionary | avid learner. Reframing for better outcomes. Connecting.
My weekly?posts
Inviting people into the wilderness?—?why change is about community, not?control
Change is often framed as a clear path with a set goal.? But as Peter Block says, ‘all projects with a clear specification, good funding and the ambition to scale are doomed to failure’. Why?
Join the conversation on LinkedIn here: https://www.dhirubhai.net/posts/antlerboy_innovation-leadership-change-activity-7261999423763705856-8AS5
Courses and?events
Contract Management Development Programme, Cohort Four is launching in January?2025
The programme is an opportunity for those involved in contract management to refresh their skills, build on their existing knowledge and expertise and refamiliarize themselves with key documents and guidance. The aim is to deepen learning and understanding around contract management and to support and challenge participants to work in new ways to deliver outcomes.
Find out more here: https://www.publicservicetransformation.org/2024/10/contract-management-development-programme-cohort-four-is-launching-january-2025/
Better Way Upcoming?Events
Better Way is a network of people across sectors exploring how to improve services, build community and create a fairer society.
Better Way has some great upcoming events for people to get involved in: - Better Way Principles and Behaviours on the 20th of November and the 4th of December.
For more information and how to join, visit their website here: https://www.betterway.network/forthcoming-events
The Next National Commissioning Academy?—?coming early?2025
We are currently working on the next iteration of the National Commissioning Academy, which we expect to launch early in 2025. Dates and locations will be forthcoming!
Read more here: https://www.publicservicetransformation.org/2024/09/the-next-national-commissioning-academy-coming-early-2025/
Complexity & Management Conference 6–8th June?2025
The conference begins on Friday 6th June 2025 and finishes at lunchtime on Sunday 8th. The currency of the conference is conversation and exploration in large groups and small.
Read more here: https://complexityandmanagement.com/2024/11/04/complexity-management-conference-6-8th-june-2025/
Systems Thinking?—?Holistic Flexibility for Systems Thinking- OR Society online session with Rajneesh Chowdhury, 21 January 2025 13:00 UK time?(online)
Join us for the online event exploring how the conceptual lens of Holistic Flexibility presents new advancements in systems thinking with our guest speaker Rajneesh Chowdhury.
Speaking about his new book we will explore how the conceptual lens of Holistic Flexibility presents new advancements in systems thinking.
Systems thinking is often associated with frameworks and methodologies that often confine the discipline to academic circles in operations research and management science (OR/MS).
Level 7 Systems Thinking Practitioner Apprenticeship
Work in England or Wales? Want to develop your systems thinking skills? Sign up now for the next cohort of the Level 7 Systems Thinking Practitioner Apprenticeship?—?Cherith Simmons, with experts from SCiO (including me)?—?likely start in January 2025!
Things I shared on?socials:
A New Idea for How to Assemble?Life
The article explores a novel theory on how life might assemble throughout the universe, suggesting that physical and chemical processes may universally favour the emergence of complex biological structures under the right conditions.
Can computers think? No. They can’t actually do?anything
The article delves into the question of whether computers can truly “think,” concluding that while they process data and execute tasks, they lack intrinsic understanding or intention. It argues that computers do not genuinely “do” anything by themselves, as their operations rely entirely on human design and input.
Grounding cognition: heterarchical control mechanisms in?biology
The article explores the intricate interplay between biology and the environment, focusing on how external factors can influence gene expression and behaviour. It underscores the importance of understanding this dynamic relationship to gain insights into evolutionary adaptations and resilience.
If a Bomb Hits the?Bridge
The article analyses the potential consequences and strategic considerations surrounding an attack on a significant bridge. It explores how such an event could impact regional stability, military dynamics, and political responses, emphasising the symbolic and logistical importance of key infrastructure in conflict zones.