narrative spectrum

At the heart of our business lies two frameworks which we translate into presentations, workshops and consulting processes:

1. Narrative Model

Besides the traditional application of storytelling in organisations, we also draw deeply on our ability to gather stories relating to various problems facing the organisation. These anecdotes and narratives are used to understand the problem, providing the organisation with a language to describe it, which is then used in turn to educate, motivate and shift mindsets towards sustainable change. Read more about the model at our Narrative Model page here.

2. Complexity Framework

Developed by Prof. Dave Snowden under the Cognitive Edge banner, the Complexity Framework helps us understand the nature of the problems we face in organisations. It essentially helps us distinguish the simple problems from the complicated, and the complex problems from the chaotic. The Framework also gives us a strategy for addressing each type of problem.

Some quotes we consult by ...

“Make everything as simple as possible, but not simpler.”
- Albert Einstein

"Many great ideas go unexecuted, and many great executioners are without great ideas. One without the other is worthless.”

- Tim Blixseth

Our approach to change

We believe that by gathering narratives and applying the complexity framework, we are able to find the relatively simple solutions that will shift the nature of complex problems. What does this mean?

We liken change to the way in which a large oil tanker turns. Despite its size, an oil tanker needs to turn pretty quickly in the face of a large storm. At the captains disposal is the rudder - a rather small piece of gear in comparison to the size of the ship. The problem is that the rudder can only turn the ship within a defined turning circle. This is fine when facing anticipated storms at sea. What does a captain do when faced with an unexpected foe? 

Engineers have found the answer: simply add a thin sliver of metal to the rudder, known as an efficiency rudder, that accentuates the turning forces generated by the rudder. The result? The turning circle of the tanker is greatly reduced, and the ship is able to navigate itself away from the storm.

Is the same not true of our organisations? That in the face of anticipated problems and changes, we can turn the organisation around with tried and tested methods? What happens however when we face problems and changes that catch us off-guard? What is the efficiency rudder for our organisations?

And so, The Narrative Lab assists companies by gathering narratives and applying the complexity framework so that we are able to find the relatively simple solutions that will shift the nature of complex problems.

Sonja and are sitting at the Sandton Southern Sun listening to Justin Cohen present his preso on storytelling: What's Your Story? I met Justin in my TomorrowToday days and admired his blatant confidence in front of an audience. He is now turning his speaking prowess to punting the power of stories in the public sphere. We're sitting here 'cos we're fascinated by the range of applications of story. From traditional storytelling to business narrative, we see a spectrum of applications and uses of story in organisations. I suspect Justin will position himself on the traditional side of the spectrum?

Along with Point Creative, Lucabantu and James Durno, The Narrative Lab will be hosting an interactive workshop on Narrative in Business, 5th November, 2008.

In this workshop we will explore the narrative spectrum of applications available to leaders in business. With the aid of an on-site storyteller, cartoonist and graphic facilitator, we'll equip you to decide what application of narrative you may require in addressing challenges in communications, change management, strategy, event design and complex problem resolution.

When: 5th November, 08h30 to 13h30
Where: Hacklebrooke Estate
How much: R1000 (ex VAT, incl meals and material)
RSVP by 30th Oct at events@narrativelab.co.za
Early bird discount if you RSVP before 13th October.

Download the invite below ...