How to Change and Improve Organisations | Nilguin van Raad | Beyond Coding Podcast #109

Interventions

Nilguin van Raad shares insights into systemic interventions within organizations, highlighting the importance of addressing underlying issues to foster inclusion. She describes a method where physical movement is used to reveal and address differences among team members, leading to greater understanding and reduced bullying 1. This approach emphasizes the need for thoughtful interventions to create a cohesive team environment. Patrick Akil notes that while teams often naturally evolve towards inclusion, proactive efforts to understand and embrace differences can accelerate this process 1. Nilguin adds that clarifying roles and responsibilities can resolve implicit conflicts within teams, ensuring smoother collaboration 2.

   

Root Causes

Identifying root causes is crucial for effective organizational change. Nilguin emphasizes the need to understand the cultural and systemic factors that contribute to current behaviors and outcomes 3. She explains that if changing personnel doesn't resolve issues, the problem likely lies within the system itself. Patrick Akil reflects on his natural curiosity to understand organizational dynamics, noting that intuition plays a significant role in identifying these root causes 4. Nilguin agrees, stating that a blend of analysis and intuition is essential for uncovering the most impactful areas for change.

   

Organizational Patterns

Organizational patterns often mirror familial and societal behaviors, influencing how teams function. Nilguin discusses how ingrained patterns can persist across generations, affecting organizational culture 5. She notes that these patterns are often embedded in the "walls" of an organization, requiring a shift in perspective to address them effectively. Patrick Akil observes that individuals tend to mimic the behaviors of those around them, whether in family or work settings, highlighting the importance of diverse perspectives for personal and organizational growth 6.