”What we mean by information - the elementary unit of information - is a difference which makes a difference.”

- Gregory Bateson

Balancing rather than solving paradoxes

  • The interaction between individuals und organisations creates certain fields of tension. Desires and cultures collide. Different ideas and implicit expectations are negotiated constantly in everyday processes. Let us find a balance together.

    Let us reveal, weigh out and work on balancing these fields of tensions. Solving them will not be our goal.

    What do members need of their organisation?
    What does this organisation need from his members?
    Make visible, make discussable, bring to our consciousness through reflection and act intentionally as a next step.

    These fields of tension will help us reveal tendencies in organisational behaviour. These tendencies give us the necessary information to act in opposition to or accordance with them This choice describes the strategic direction in change processes. It is the job of the people in charge to steer these efforts and make active decisions regarding paradoxical situations.

Embracing both instead of choosing

  • Change

    nothing is as constant as change
    What does the future hold?
    Where will our journey lead to?
    What is different tomorrow?

    unforeseen explorations

  • Stability

    the power of the status quo
    What has proven itself?
    What are our routines?
    Is it good the way it is?

    predictable exploitation

  • Proximity

    working as all of yourself
    Do we want participatory decision-making structures?
    Everyone does everything
    Affection, trust, sympathy

    informalization

  • Distance

    I am my role
    How functional is our hierarchy?
    Clear roles, clear rules 
    Freedom, individuality, independence

    formalization

  • Harmony

    because, really, who needs clarity?
    What do we like about each other? Do we really have to talk about everything?
    Just do not stand out

    taboo

  • Conflict

    what I always wanted to tell you
    What are our differences?
    Are we talking about the same thing?

    It could get uncomfortable
    transparency