In this conversation, Professor Sohail Inayatullah, a top expert in futures studies, delves into his innovative Causal Layered Analysis (CLA) tool. He explains how CLA uncovers the hidden narratives behind our beliefs, crucial for addressing complex issues like healthcare and organizational change. Sohail shares real-world examples, emphasizing the transformative power of storytelling. He discusses how shifting energy narratives can foster more sustainable approaches and advises practitioners on integrating their narratives with clients' for impactful decision-making.
Integrating personal narratives into organizational development fosters empathy and collaboration, aligning individual transformations with broader strategic goals.
Deep dives
The Significance of Storytelling in Data Analysis
Data analysis often emphasizes quantitative metrics, but the power of storytelling plays a crucial role in decision-making. While professionals may assert that data is paramount, many incorporate narratives to convey points more effectively. The discourse in corporate settings reveals that even data-driven executives frequently rely on metaphors and stories to communicate ideas. This dynamic illustrates the underlying truth that people are often swayed by compelling narratives, even when they claim to base their decisions solely on facts.
Causal Layered Analysis (CLA) as a Tool for Deeper Insights
Causal Layered Analysis (CLA) serves as a framework for uncovering the layers beneath superficial data-driven insights, focusing on core narratives and worldviews. The tool consists of four levels: the litany, the system, the worldview, and the unconscious metaphor. By delving beyond the surface level, CLA enables organizations to reframe their understanding of issues and explore underlying causes. This process fosters innovative solutions that address the root of problems instead of merely treating their symptoms.
Transforming Organizational Mindsets through New Metaphors
Organizations often adhere to outdated metaphors that limit their potential for growth and adaptation. For instance, a power company might traditionally view its role as simply keeping the lights on at the lowest cost. However, shifting the metaphor to one where the organization acts as a connector between consumers and energy producers can lead to new strategies and frameworks. This reimagining allows organizations to embrace decentralization and innovate in response to evolving industry landscapes.
The Role of Personal and Organizational Storytelling in Change
Integrating personal narratives into professional development enhances understanding and fosters deeper connections among team members. It becomes essential for leaders to explore their own stories and metaphors, which informs their roles within the organization. Acknowledging personal challenges can lead to greater empathy and collaboration during strategic planning sessions. By aligning personal transformations with organizational goals, teams can cultivate a shared vision that drives meaningful change.
In this third episode we chat with Professor Sohail Inayatullah, who is one of the planet’s biggest names when it comes to futures studies (actually, when it comes to any sort of studies - he’s in the top two per cent of scientists worldwide as measured by citations).
CLA, or Causal Layered Analysis, is a tool Sohail created to get to the hidden layers that drive our thoughts, beliefs and actions. In this conversation he talks about why he created the tool, how it works in practice and tips for facilitators. He peppers this advice with plenty of real-world examples from his work with organisations around the globe.
In our next episode Victoria will take this conversation and turn it into an imagined workshop. Until then please enjoy our interview with Sohail!
Music for this episode created by The Beths
Produced by Jesse
Logo design by Hazel Mulligan
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thefuturesworkshop.substack.com
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