The Next Next Common Sense
4. Creating Diverse Teams
Different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives naturally pro- duce different mental models. By deliberately creating diverse teams, or- ganizations increase their collective model repertoire. JPMorgan Chase established "Advancing Black Pathways," an ini- tiative that not only increased representation but deliberately incorpo- rated diverse mental models into decision-making processes. This led to the identification of previously overlooked market opportunities and improved product designs.
5. Questioning the Context Itself
Sometimes the most powerful intervention is questioning whether the current context is the right one. By reframing the context, entirely new mental models become possible. When Satya Nadella became CEO of Microsoft, he didn't just change strategies within the existing context of "Windows first." He fundamen- tally redefined the context as "cloud-first, mobile-first," opening space for completely different mental models to emerge. By deliberately shaping the context in which mental models operate, leaders can significantly influence how teams interpret and respond to business challenges without dictating specific actions. TFO rrhagema Mnei ewznaottrai kol n: MS' s oyDsdteoelmmAi asnst aiecns astlmlMy eoMndtae pl sp i n g Y o u r
Given the powerful influence of mental models on organizational behavior, leaders need systematic approaches to identify and map the dominant models operating in their organizations. The Mental Model Assessment Framework provides a structured method for uncovering
43
Made with FlippingBook. PDF to flipbook with ease