The future of Organization Development lies in facilitating a widespread cultural shift toward a flourishing economy respectful of the social and ecological systems upon which we all depend.
In 2003, our members got together to research, survey, and present results, recognizing that asking the right questions is crucial to defining the best path forward. Inquiry led us to answer the questions, and rise to the challenge they presented. But we didn't do this through inquiry alone. Over the years we've come to recognize that the most powerful tool for idea generation is dialog with others.
Purposeful dialog with collaborators, students, editors, and event participants defined our mission: to transform organizations and communities in service of humanity and the earth. Guided by shared values and goals, it is still dialog that germinates new ideas in service of that purpose. Whether consultants, human resource professionals, coaches or community organizers, our members are experts at facilitation, systems thinking, and a slew of other competencies shown to be key to successful sustainability initiatives.
By getting together as a community of practitioners with a shared purpose - formally or informally, in a group of 2 or 20, by phone, in person, or online - we continue the dialog that, again and again, translates into action. Whether that action is taking or teaching a course about sustainability-related OD skills, proposing alternative ways of doing 'business as usual' at work, collaborating on a book or article, or brainstorming ways to be proactive in our workplace or community, dialog generates ideas. Ideas with the support of a community make an impact!
Bright spots are people and organizations that inspire, working on the human side of change-making. They vary in scale and type, and strive toward a shared goal of a socially, economically, and ecologically flourishing world. By highlighting success stories, like-minded practitioners can get ideas, deepen their knowledge, forge partnerships, and continue to build on what others have started. Below are just a few. Connect with us on LinkedIn to share other bright spots, including the work you are doing.
The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development provides a shared blueprint of 17 Sustainable Development Goals for peace and prosperity for people and the planet, now and into the future.
Collective Responsibility develops long term knowledge bases, capacity, and programs in the areas of Corporate Social Responsibility, sustainability, and civil society for both profit and non-profit enterprises.
AIM2Flourish is an initiative of the Fowler Center for Business as an Agent of World Benefit, connecting students with business innovators using Appreciative Inquiry to celebrate business innovations aligned with the UN Global Goals.
The Inner Development Goals (IDG) is a non-profit, open-source initiative committed to fostering inner development towards more sustainable futures. They research, collect, and communicate science-based skills and qualities that help us to live purposeful, sustainable, and productive lives.
The Society for Organizational Learning (SoL) North America is a Massachusetts-based non-profit that aims to create new opportunities and develop new capacities for a better society. SoL aspires to connect people with the tools and community support they need to tackle today’s complex and evolving issues.
u-school is a global capacity-building and action research platform that offers programs, certifications, space holding and innovation labs using Theory U and Social Arts to activate a shift in individuals and collectives from ego- to eco-system consciousness, for the healing and regeneration of self, society and planet.