Bigger Pictures for Innovation: Creating Solutions, Managing Enterprises, and Influencing Policies

This book is a collection of stories about the author's experiences as an engineer and the lessons he learned from research and practice. The lessons focus on people and organizations, often enabled by technology, and the settings range from airplanes, power plants, and communication networks to ecosystems that enable education, healthcare, and transportation. The author sought to understand the bigger picture to find the sources of requirements, constraints, norms, and values and found that higher levels of an ecosystem often provide the resources and dictate the constraints imposed on lower levels. The answers to the question were not just technical and economic, but also reflected eons of social and political priorities. The stories and lessons provide useful perspectives on change and the understanding of people and organizations that emerges from these lessons can help to enable transformative change.

Format: Hardback
Length: 198 pages
Publication date: 07 February 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into a collection of captivating stories, spanning several decades, that shed light on the experiences of engineers and the invaluable lessons they have learned through research and practical application. These lessons revolve around the intricate interplay between people and organizations, often facilitated by innovative technologies. The diverse settings explored in the book encompass a wide range of domains, including airplanes, power plants, communication networks, and even ecosystems that play a pivotal role in education, healthcare, and transportation. Within these settings, the author's deep insights have led him to ponder the underlying mechanisms that govern the behavior and social dynamics of these systems.

Driven by a relentless quest for understanding, the author sought to unravel the sources of requirements, constraints, norms, and values that shape these complex environments. He embarked on a journey to explore what could be altered, despite the often formidable challenges that arose. What he discovered was that higher levels of an ecosystem often wield significant influence, imposing their own resources and constraints on lower levels. These prescriptions, while not mere commands, carry profound values and cultural norms that have evolved over centuries. Thus, the answers to the question of why things work as they do were not solely technical or economic. They encompassed a rich tapestry of social and political priorities that had shaped the course of history.

In the pursuit of these answers, the author encountered numerous endeavors that involved addressing emerging realities rather than simply maintaining the status quo. This book serves as an ongoing exploration of these broader perspectives, offering valuable insights into the dynamics of change. By delving into the understanding of people and organizations that emerge from these lessons, readers are empowered to facilitate transformative change not only within themselves and their organizations but also in the lives of those who support and guide them on their journey.

At its core, this book is a testament to the human-centric nature of fundamental change. It recognizes that change is not just a matter of adopting new technologies or strategies; it is an intensely personal and collective endeavor that requires a deep understanding of the human experience. The stories and lessons shared within these pages provide a rich tapestry of perspectives, offering valuable insights into the complexities of human behavior, organizational dynamics, and the transformative power of technology. As the narratives unfold, readers will meet a diverse range of individuals who have played pivotal

significant roles in shaping the world as we know it. These individuals, from engineers and scientists to policymakers and community leaders, have each contributed their unique perspectives and experiences to the ongoing dialogue about the future of our society.

In conclusion, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to navigate the complexities of the modern world. It offers a profound exploration of the lessons learned from decades of engineering experience and provides valuable insights into the forces of change. By embracing a human-centric approach, readers are empowered to drive transformative change in their own lives and organizations, while also contributing to the collective efforts of building a better future for all.

Weight: 566g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032430560