Roam Before You Pave
posted May 09
Earth, UV* An architect built a cluster of office buildings around a central green. When construction was completed, the landscape crew asked him where he wanted the sidewalks.
"Just plant the grass solidly between the buildings," was his reply.
By late summer, the new lawn was laced with paths of trodden grass between the buildings. These paths turned in easy curves and were sized according to traffic flow.
In the fall, the architect simply paved the paths. Not only were the paths beautiful, they responded directly to user needs.
Applying this lesson to business, why not let customers test your prototype product, service, or program before it is fully baked? See how they use it, then modify to best meet their needs.
How about allowing employees to pick the shifts they want to work? Define their job responsibilities? Or create the scope of their benefits plan?Instead of forcing, ask how they would roam, then pave.
Not only were the paths beautiful, they responded directly to user needs.
As a parent, instead of pushing your kids into a certain career, can you let them first find their own interests? Once they've made "tracks in the grass," then pave with support where it is most needed?
I‘m sure there are many more ways to apply this lesson. Be aware of when you may be forcing, and see if you can ease up and see what develops.
~ Paul Williams, the ever innovative concept designer of IdeaSandbox.com Have a Look
If you enjoyed this reading, you may enjoy The Story Behind Pet Rock Innovations in the Phoenix Body Mind & Soul webzine. Go Now
*UV is the abbreviation for Universe