Inspirations From Analytics 2012

There was one theme that spanned thru a variety of presentations – almost as if the theme was a growing entity that intended to take over the world thru subliminal messages.  That theme was “Culture”.  Some examples follow:

- The best leaders don’t manage people, policy and systems – they intentionally manage culture.

- The Edelman Finalist met the difficult task of demonstrating how their Analytic/Operations Research techniques improved their task, project, or company.  Getting the right people to either support or utilize their technique was a key point in many of their presentations (I admit to not attending all of them).  That is a statement of culture.

- The Edelman Award winner, TNT Express, demonstrated that they intentionally undertook a plan to infuse their DNA with Operations Research – to move to a new culture.

- Decision Coaches arise as a new profession – some cultures can adapt easier to this than others.

In the end, it is all about culture.  Saving the organization money is good.  Increasing profits is good.  Growing a culture of Analytics / Operations Research is good that endures.