In+Conclusion

In Conclusion
What have we learned about learning through participation and connected intelligence? What do organizations need to do?

The value of connected intelligences in an organisation is exponential, increasing beyond the square of the number of people in its network. Taking full advantage of the potential depends on the interaction of collaboration tools, individual participation and an organisation structure that supports rather than impedes knowledge flow and interaction through social networks.

In the three decades plus since Bob Metcalfe invented Ethernet proliferating computer connections have strained industrial era hierarchical organizational structures. A growing body of research is providing new models and understanding about operating organizations to create wealth through the exponential power of network laws, wikinomics and mobilizing minds. It is the number, strength and diversity of ties or connections which individuals use that promotes organizational learning and creates market capitalization.

The opportunity in connecting intelligence is tapping the energy, expertise and passion of people who care and enabling the process of emergent knowledge creation and shared learning. It requires thinking differently about the value of hallway conversations. It involves adapting your organization to NOT get in the way AND support knowledge flow and sharing on topics that promise value creation for your organization.

It encourages organizations to reward sharing and active participation, creating an environment in which access to peers, openness and transparency, and collaboration are valued. Undoubtedly this will require different mindsets and skill transitions for traditional hierarchical organizations. Production is no longer linear. Solving problems demands “and both” thinking, an environment where answers are co-created rather than found, and embracing the potential of the space between structural holes as a place where opportunity resides.

In an uncertain world, there is one certainty. With Moore, Metcalfe and Reed’s Laws at work, ignoring the exponential power of connected intelligence for learning and networking organisations to support knowledge flow, is no longer optional.

Do you agree? Please join the discussion here offering Reader Reactions or sharing experience and ideas about putting connected intelligence to work.