So what is a “systems strategy and design consultancy”?
Systems Strategy and Design:
We face challenges that behave in complex, unpredictable ways. Commonly interconnected with other problems, they resist resolution despite best efforts. When we seek to change by seeing patterns, not just problems, we can reduce and disrupt these challenges. We can improve the health of systems by unlocking change, rather than imposing it; and adapting as we learn together. This is systems strategy.
We use the human-centered design principle of involving the human perspective in all aspects of the problem-solving process to achieve deep impact. We work together with our community partners and fellow consultants to build organic, self-sustaining networks of individuals and organizations that put people first, connecting them to inspire new ideas and bring new solutions to the world.
Methodology:
Typically when a consultant talks about their methodology, they describe what a client can pay them to do. But in our case, it’s much more appropriate to describe how we think, and the best way to do that is with an image:
The four phases of our iterative process. Click on the image to learn more.
Constrained Budgets. Unconstrained Challenges.
We are also well aware that in order for this to work, it has to be cost effective. Part of our work together is finding potential pathways to sustainably fund the work. Our process begins with a conversation.
Project Network
Our team members have been privileged to work with the following organizations to positively impact the communities we serve, leading multiple projects that fulfill our community impact mission.
How can we work together to achieve lasting impacts?
Project Examples
These demonstrate different ways we’ve employed our methodology to approach complex community challenges.
The Intersection of Healthcare and Homelessness
Through the Northern Michigan Community Health Innovation Region, we’ve engaged with residents and providers to develop research-based solutions that keep our most vulnerable neighbors from getting lost in the gaps between the healthcare and homelessness services systems.
5toOne
An innovative model for supporting families raising young children in rural Northwest Lower Michigan.
“Supporting families to get early childhood ‘right’ pays huge dividends. We can reduce the cost of social services, increase graduation rates, and raise up the next generation of great workers, business leaders and entrepreneurs.”
Hablamos Juntos
For the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the Society for Experiential Graphic Design, we engaged in a research process in healthcare facilities across the United States to determine the efficacy of a set of international symbols designed to enable more accessible healthcare experiences for those with limited English proficiency.