Innovation isn’t just about adopting new technologies or strategies; it’s about cultivating fresh perspectives and insights. One powerful tool that originated in Germany and that’s gaining traction worldwide is Systemic Business Constellations (SBC), a modality that taps into intuitive realms to unveil unseen dynamics within organisations. At the heart of this approach lies the concept of phenomenology – a way of observing, experiencing, and understanding the world without relying solely on cognitive analysis.
At the core of phenomenology lies the notion of “observation and focus,” a concept that is central to both Blue Ocean Strategy and Design Thinking. In these frameworks, practitioners are encouraged to immerse themselves in the present moment, to observe without judgment, and to allow insights to emerge organically. Similarly, in SBC, we adopt a stance of receptive awareness, tuning into the subtle signals and underlying patterns that shape our organizational landscapes.
Similarly, the principles of Design Thinking advocate for a human-centered approach to problem-solving, one that prioritizes empathy, experimentation, and iteration. At its core, Design Thinking encourages us to engage with the world as it is, to immerse ourselves in the experiences of others, and to let insights emerge through a process of iterative prototyping. This stance mirrors to some degree the phenomenological approach in SBC.
Phenomenology invites us to embrace a perspective of not knowing, to delve into the depths of our intuition, and to trust our senses, our “gut feeling and hunches”. Rather than applying only our analytical minds, we immerse ourselves in the experience, sensing the nuances and dynamics that shape our reality. It’s a journey of discovery guided by intuition rather than logic, where we learn to see and sense before we seek to understand.
But how does this intuitive process actually work? To grasp the concept, we can explore the fascinating interplay between our brains and our perceptions. Our brains are wired to respond to images, art, and spatial arrangements in profound ways. When engaged in an SBC session, we activate these neural pathways, allowing us to perceive patterns and connections that elude conscious awareness.
Moreover, the phenomenological approach taps into the rich tapestry of human experience – from physical sensations and emotions to relational dynamics and three-dimensional representations. By “coming to our senses,” we open ourselves to a deeper level of awareness, going beyond thought and delves into the realm of an intrinsic knowing. It’s through this sensory exploration that we gain new insights, shedding light on hidden truths and unexplored possibilities.