Fred Schindler - IEEE + Ruud Janssen #DESIGNtoCHANGE BACKstage Podcast

Quick recap Ruud and Fred discussed the importance of conversation and serendipity in driving change, at "IEEE Convene" and the upcoming conference focused on climate change and sustainability in 2025 for IEEE. They also explored the complexities of event design, the intersection between art and design, and the recent ideas generated from their "idea quarantine" session. Lastly, they discussed the structure of their respective organizations, the challenges of event planning, and the concept of event failure. Organization Structuring and Future Reflections Fred and Ruud discussed the structure and challenges of their respective organizations. Fred explained the unique situation at IEEE, where the CEO and board members are volunteers with limited terms, making it difficult to enact major long-term changes. Ruud, on the other hand, highlighted the importance of design and speed in their small but impactful organization. They agreed to reconnect in a year to review their progress and reflect on their horizons of change, with Ruud suggesting the invitation of some guests for a second year to share their reflections. Event Designers and Planners' Time Concerns Ruud and Fred discussed the importance of event designers and planners having sufficient time to explore options and claim space for their work. They highlighted the challenge of event owners often not allowing enough time for exploration and problem-solving. Fred suggested that event owners should be more involved if they want the event to reflect their vision. Ruud agreed, noting that many event planning teams are often too willing to take on all tasks, even if it means not having enough time to explore options. Event Failure, Measurement, and Collaboration Ruud and Fred discussed the concept of event failure and its measurement, emphasizing the importance of attendees perceiving their time was well spent. They highlighted the need for clear communication of entry and exit behaviors to ensure success and the collective responsibility of stakeholders to avoid events that do not offer any benefit. They also discussed the development of the clean tech conference and a new series, with Ruud expressing appreciation for Fred's time and looking forward to future collaborations. They encouraged listeners to subscribe and share their conversations online using specific hashtags and to visit the website 'designtochange' for more thought-provoking content.