Tjip de Jong
Netherlands
Learning starts with experience
“Linking social capital to knowledge productivity’ – is the title of my PHD dissertation that I defended in April 2010. This was an action-based research that focuses on the relationship between social capital and innovation. I have conducted this research as part of my work as a consultant. For me, this study touches the essence of what fascinates me in my work: innovation, learning in communities of practise, action-based research and playfulness.
Innovation is not a black box
I do not consider innovation as a mysterious black box. For me it is a learning process that is visible in cooperation and creation. Learning is a social process. The organizational climate has great impact on these learning processes. It becomes visible at the actual workplace, were things get done. If you want to reach sustainable advantage, the workplace is a crucial starting point. Learning and change starts there. Close to the “fire”. And it is exactly in that place were I would like to be as a consultant.
Designing, studying and facilitating
To get things or people in motion, I choose different roles. The role of a designer: to develop and construct plans or perspectives based on an urgent work related question. Or as a researcher and coordinator of action-based research at the actual workplace to give meaning to change and learning. But also as a facilitator of organizational change and development. I prefer processes that are fuelled by co-creation, together with relevant clients, partners and colleagues. In my opinion, a crucial ingredient to create long lasting results!
New developments
A very exiting development is that I am part of somethingisgoingtohappen, a group within Kessels & Smit. Something is a way to shape learning by starting with essential experiences. Such an experience gives direct input to participants to make next steps within an organization. Games, stories, gadgets (such as i-pods, even actors or telephones) and taking away existing barriers are very powerful in this perspective. Something is a new perspective on learning were everything is possible. It takes away limitations, boundaries and creates space to learn.