GSDL · Issue №26
MMXXVI · NAIROBI
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the field.
Paper · Ink · Method · Co-creation
Compositing types
000
Section 02 · How we work

An approach
with four
directions.

We support institutions to be relevant in complex, fast-paced environments. Listen closely. Interrogate the process. Bridge sectors. Arrive at solutions specific to the problem in front of us · and the conditions that led to it.

01 · Make meaning
02 · Collective intelligence
03 · Portfolio approach
04 · Solutions mapping
Co-design
co-create
co-execute
Pillar 01
01

Make
meaning

Support institutions to be relevant in complex and fast-paced environments.

We listen closely, interrogate the process, and bridge sectors to arrive at the best solutions to specific problems · and to the broader conditions that led to those problems.

  • i.Listen first, frame second, prescribe last.
  • ii.Interrogate process · not just outcomes.
  • iii.Bridge sectors so insights cross silos.
Pillar 02
02

Collective
intelligence

Keep the finger on the pulse · together. What's happening on the ground and what futures are possible.

We strive to identify new strategies for understanding challenges as they unfold; co-create new approaches to identifying solutions; and address not just the problem in front of us but the broader environment.

  • i.Read the ground continuously.
  • ii.Co-create · never prescribe.
  • iii.Hold problem + environment in one frame.
PLATE № 03 · COMPASS
North · Method Plate iii
Interlude · iii

The compass is not a metaphor. It is a checklist · for every engagement, in every season.

from the working notebook
Pillar 03
03

Portfolio
approach

Co-design, co-create, co-execute. We catalyse potential partnerships and connect opportunities.

Different players move together towards common goals. We employ the triple-helix approach · working with government, the private sector, academia and non-state actors.

  • i.Government · policy & enabling environment.
  • ii.Private sector · capital, scale, distribution.
  • iii.Academia · evidence and method.
  • iv.Non-state actors · voice and reach.
Pillar 04
04

Solutions
mapping

Branch out together · to explore solutions to the context challenge.

Mapping is how we move from many possibilities to a few catalytic commitments. We test, prune, and converge · together with the people who'll live with the outcome.

  • i.Diverge widely, converge deliberately.
  • ii.Surface the trade-offs in plain language.
  • iii.Commit to the most catalytic path.